12. Main takeaways

Security standard, like any other standard, is a technical specification or criteria designed to be used consistently, as a rule, a guideline, or a definition.  Standards are developed through a consensus-building process at international, regional or national organisations.  

In this module, we have explored various standards developing organisations, the cybersecurity standards they have developed, and opportunities for engagement.  Recognising that developing countries are not sufficiently represented in the standards development process, there has been an effort to bridge the gap, through various initiatives. These initiatives, including the  African Standardization Strategy and Roadmap for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, seek to promote harmonisation of standards to enhance competitiveness of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).  A country’s commitment to participate in the development of international cybersecurity standards should be articulated in its national cybersecurity strategy to ensure that experts and resources are dedicated to the process.