Africa is one of the least prepared regions in the world to deal with major cyberattacks. According to the Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 report, recently published by the World Economic Forum (WEF), 36% of African businesses doubt their country’s ability to handle a major cyberattack on critical infrastructure, 27% take a neutral position, and only 9% say they are confident. These glaring figures highlight the continent’s vulnerability to a growing threat in an increasingly digital world.
The most exposed sectors
According to the Africa Cyber Threat Assessment Report, published by Interpol in 2023, ransomware regularly targets the financial sector, emails, social media, logistics/transport, commerce (including e-commerce), payment, telecommunications. Critical infrastructure, particularly in the energy and transport sectors, are also among the targets of cybercriminals, which compromises the stability of essential services.
These attacks not only disrupt economic activities, but also the confidence of citizens and investors.
African banks, particularly vulnerable, are suffering an increase in attacks targeting their digital payment systems.
Causes of vulnerability
Several factors explain this worrying situation. First, budgets devoted to cybersecurity remain insufficient in many African countries. Furthermore, there is a glaring shortage of qualified experts in this field in Africa. Despite progress in data protection legislation in some countries, many are still lagging behind.
Additionally, businesses and citizens often underestimate the severity of cyber threats. According to Orange Cyberdefense’s Security Navigator 2023 report, cyberattacks could result in a 10% loss of GDP in Africa, while the number of extortions has increased by 70% in 2023, illustrating the escalation of threats on the continent.
Opportunities
Despite the challenges, the cybersecurity market in Africa has significant growth potential. According to Mordor Intelligence, the African cybersecurity market size is estimated at USD 0.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.28 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% over the period 2024-2029.
This growth demonstrates the economic potential for local companies specializing in this sector, as well as international investors, who see Africa as a growth market. This represents a real opportunity to develop solutions tailored to the specific challenges of the continent.
African universities and training centers also have an opportunity to enrich their training programs to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals. This dynamic could allow the continent to strengthen its resilience while creating new professional opportunities for African youth.
Companies, especially local start-ups, can innovate in cybersecurity by developing products and services that meet local needs. In addition, African governments could support this transformation by putting in place policies that encourage innovation and investment in cybersecurity solutions adapted to the African context.
Cybersecurity in Africa is an indispensable component of the continent’s successful digital transformation. Overcoming the weaknesses that still persist is essential to ensure trust in the 4.0 world.
Source: extensia.tech
