1. Introduction

The Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030) seeks to enable digital transformation and industrialisation, and support the digital economy and implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).  The strategy promotes the use of open standards in the building of an interoperable cross-border trust framework for personal data protection and privacy.

It is therefore imperative for policy makers to understand the importance of developing and implementing security related standards. When assessing a country’s cybersecurity capacity, different approaches can be used.  The  Cybersecurity Capacity Maturity (CMM) Model for Nations addresses the use of cybersecurity technology and standards to protect individuals, organisations, and national infrastructure. In addition, the CMM model addresses cybersecurity knowledge and capabilities, including the availability of formal cybersecurity education programmes, and professional  training programmes.

The module covers cybersecurity standards, standards development organisations (SDOs), and explores the opportunities for the involvement of African stakeholders in the development of standards.  The module also explores opportunities for development of capacity through certification of institutions and personnel.