INFORMATION Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services minister Tatenda Mavetera says collective dedication to innovation and collaboration is crucial in addressing cyber security threats.
These threats include malware, phishing, ransomware and other types of cyber attacks that can compromise sensitive information, disrupt operations and cause financial losses for individuals, businesses and governments.
American Israeli software firm, Check Point Software Technologies, in July revealed that Zimbabwe was the third most cyber-attacked country globally.
In the second quarter of the year, there were 57 criminal acts against computer systems recorded, a decrease from 61 in the first quarter, according to national statistics.
“As we navigate the complexities of our increasingly interconnected world, cybersecurity has become a critical component of our collective well-being,” Mavetera said, in a speech at the 2024 Cyber Security Excellence Awards Zimbabwe held last Friday in Harare.
“The importance of safeguarding our digital infrastructure, protecting sensitive information and ensuring the trust of our citizens cannot be overstated.”
The awards were hosted by the Institute of Cyber Security Zimbabwe (ICSZ), an educational hub that provides information, analysis, education and research in information security.
ICSZ board chairperson Danisa Chinamasa said cyber security threats often manifested in vernacular language making them accessible to a wider audience while some even draw parallels to biblical teachings “reminding us of the age-old battle between good and evil”.
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“As we recognise the importance of awareness, let us celebrate the achievements in this field,during national cyber security awareness month honouring those who strive to protect our digital sanctuaries.”
Other speakers at the awards ceremony noted that artificial intelligence cyber-attacks have the potential to disrupt critical infrastructure, cripple economies and undermine national security.
Dandemutande chief executive officer (CEO) Never Ncube and Tano Digital Solutions CEO Wallen Mangere were honoured during the ceremony for demonstrating outstanding leadership, vision and dedication to cyber security excellence and received the Cyber Security CEO of the Year Award.
Other winners included EcoCash Holdings which scooped eight awards in different categories. Acute Cyber Security Service scooped the gold Cyber Security Software Company of the Year Award.
The gold Cyber Security Hardware Company for the Year Award was won by FuserTech and Kenac Computers for designing innovative cyber security solutions from evolving threats.
