ACDT champions civil society's role in cybersecurity at GISEC Global 2025

The Africa Center for Digital Transformation (ACDT) is making a significant move. They have joined the African Pavilion at the Gulf Information Security Expo and Conference (GISEC) in Dubai. This event is the largest cybersecurity conference in the Middle East.

ACDT's participation is possible through a partnership with Daakyi LLC. Daakyi LLC is ACDT’s trusted cybersecurity partner and plays an active role in Africa’s digital security.

GISEC Global will take place from May 6 to May 8, 2025. It will gather global cybersecurity experts, government officials, and tech innovators. The inclusion of an African Pavilion highlights Africa's growing role in global cybersecurity discussions.

This collaboration shows how civil society organizations (CSOs) are evolving within the cybersecurity landscape. Traditionally, discussions focused on government regulations and private-sector solutions. ACDT's presence emphasizes that civil society can drive proactive changes in cybersecurity practices across Africa.

“Our presence at GISEC is a strategic statement,” said Kwesi Atuahene, Executive Director of ACDT. He believes it showcases Africa's intellectual capital and unique perspectives on global cybersecurity issues.

Civil Society: The Missing Link in Cybersecurity Innovation

Cybersecurity threats are rapidly increasing across Africa. Ransomware attacks on governments and phishing schemes targeting mobile users are common now. These challenges extend beyond technical issues; they affect public interest as well.

However, CSOs like ACDT often lack resources to address these challenges effectively. Their participation at GISEC demonstrates how investing in CSOs can lead to impactful results.

“Cybersecurity involves trust, awareness, and inclusion,” said Nana Kwesi Nti, CEO of Daakyi LLC. He noted that partnering with ACDT bridges technical innovation with community engagement for comprehensive solutions.

The Power of Partnership: ACDT x Daakyi LLC

The collaboration between ACDT and Daakyi LLC represents a new model for addressing cybersecurity needs. Daakyi brings technological expertise while ACDT offers policy insights for integrated responses.

At GISEC, this partnership will showcase technical demonstrations alongside policy briefs and case studies. Their joint exhibition focuses on:

- Community-Centric Cybersecurity Education
- Policy Advocacy for Data Protection
- Cyber Capacity Building for Youth
- African Sovereignty in Digital Infrastructure
- Public-Private-Civic Partnerships for Resilience

Shifting the Centre of Gravity in Cybersecurity

ACDT’s involvement at GISEC highlights an important realization: true digital sovereignty requires community involvement in designing solutions. CSOs can amplify grassroots concerns and build trust in digital systems.

As investments grow from governments and private sectors, the ACDT-Daakyi partnership serves as a model for inclusive innovation. It positions civil society at the core of cybersecurity strategies rather than on the sidelines.

“We must shift from securitization to democratization of cybersecurity,” said Kwesi Atuahene. He emphasized that investing in civil society is essential for progress.

As GISEC attracts international attention, ACDT’s participation shows Africa's readiness to shape its own cybersecurity solutions. With Daakyi LLC as a partner and the African Pavilion as a platform, ACDT aims to make civil society a driving force in Africa’s digital transformation.