To bolster Africa’s defenses against cyber threats, Kaspersky, a global cybersecurity company, has signed a five-year collaboration agreement with AFRIPOL, the African Union’s specialized police cooperation body. The partnership aims to enhance information sharing and strengthen the continent’s resilience against escalating cybercrime.
Under the agreement, the two organizations will exchange threat intelligence data on emerging cybercrime activities. This data will enable AFRIPOL to conduct advanced criminal intelligence analysis and improve its operational capacity. Kaspersky will also provide technical expertise and information security training, leveraging its global experience in combating cyber threats.
A joint statement from the partners emphasized Africa’s evolving cyber threat landscape, noting the region’s unique vulnerabilities. According to Kaspersky’s data, Africa has the highest percentage of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) computers targeted by malicious objects compared to other regions globally. This underscores the need for heightened collaboration to mitigate risks.
The signing ceremony, held at AFRIPOL’s headquarters in Algiers, was attended by Kaspersky’s founder and CEO, Eugene Kaspersky, and AFRIPOL’s Acting Executive Director, Ambassador Jalel Chelba. Both leaders highlighted the partnership’s significance in fostering a safer digital ecosystem.
“An effective fight against cybercrime is inconceivable without cooperation,” said Eugene Kaspersky. “By advancing our partnership with AFRIPOL and equipping the agency with the necessary tools and knowledge, we aim to contribute to a safer cyberspace for Africa.”
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Ambassador Chelba echoed this sentiment, calling the collaboration a milestone for Africa’s cybersecurity framework. “Leveraging Kaspersky’s expertise enhances AFRIPOL’s capacity to counter cyber threats while ensuring a secure digital environment for African citizens. This partnership reinforces trust and resilience in Africa’s digital space,” he stated.
The agreement marks a step forward in combating cybercrime and supporting digital trust across Africa. Both organizations are committed to strengthening defenses in one of the world’s most active cyber threat regions.
