In an era where digital threats loom large over civil society, the Strengthening Digital Resilience of Civil Society in West Africa training emerged as a beacon of empowerment and fortification. Hosted with the generous support of the Mott Foundation, the event saw 20 civil actors from across the region, representing a diverse array of organizations, come together to enhance their digital defenses. Among these were Gabriel Ofori Appiah and Christian Arhin from the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation, who not only participated but also brought back invaluable lessons and connections.
The training focused on advanced strategies to protect organizations against online threats, a crucial endeavor in today’s interconnected world. Facilitator Kwame led the sessions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical and digital security. “The boundary between our physical and digital identities is increasingly blurred, making comprehensive security strategies more important than ever,” Kwame highlighted.
Gabriel Ofori Appiah reflected on the experience, noting, “The training underscored the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in our approach to digital security. It’s not just about safeguarding information but also about creating a culture of security within our organizations.” This sentiment was echoed by Christian Arhin, who added, “The sessions with Kwame opened our eyes to the sophistication of digital threats and the need for continuous learning and adaptation.”
Beyond the lessons learned, the event served as a fertile ground for networking. Participants from various organizations, including the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), Girls Empowerment Mission Ghana, Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), and many others, exchanged ideas and pledged support for one another’s digital safety efforts. “The connections made here are just as important as the skills acquired. We’re not alone in this fight against digital threats,” Christian remarked.
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Mott Foundation, which was acknowledged by all participants for their role in constructing a digital stronghold for change. The diverse participants, including Act for Change, RAGeT-AFRICA, SEND WEST AFRICA, and the National Network of Youth Groups (NNOYG-GH), among others, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the training.
As we look to the future, the lessons learned and the networks established during this training will undoubtedly play a critical role in strengthening the digital resilience of civil society across West Africa. The Ghana Internet Safety Foundation representatives, Gabriel Ofori Appiah and Christian Arhin, return to their work with renewed vigor and a deeper understanding of the intricate link between digital and physical security, ready to act for change and lead the way in digital empowerment.
The event stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of digital resilience in today’s world. It is a step forward in the journey towards a safer, more secure digital environment for all.
