Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) says there is a need for cyber security to protect the country’s ICT industry from attacks which create confusion and scares for both organizations and consumers.
Delegates to the ICT conference
ICT conference in Mangochi
Macra deputy Director General, Francis Bisika made the call on Saturday during the first ever Malawi’s two-day ICT conference in Mangochi dubbed ICT@50 Conference, which attracted various players in the ICT sector.
Bisika’s call comes at the time hackers have been infiltrating government’s internet hub, taking over all its departments’ website.
He said currently Macra was pushing for enactment of e-legislation and amendment of the Communications Act to ensure the ICT sector is well regulated.
‘’Issues of cyber-attack have been one of the challenges affecting the ICT sector; we need to adopt regulations to ensure there is cyber security. As Macra we invite all players to join hands with government in such initiative for the betterment of our nation,’’ said Bisika.
The conference under the way at Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi has been organized and funded by Sparc Systems Limited with the aim of finding solutions to the challenges facing the ICT sector, and the private sector has a say on issues concerning ICT in the country.
Sparc Systems Limited Managing Director, Wisely Phiri called on Malawians to start supporting local innovations in order for the industry to grow.
‘’People need to change their mindset about ICT. Malawians don’t support local products; we don’t support each other. The conference is focusing on addressing challenges derailing the growth of the ICT sector in the country,’’ said Phiri.
Phiri then called for the reestablishment of ICT Association of Malawi (ICTAM), which is an ICT body entitled to handle issues concerning players in the industry.