Information and communication technology, cyber-security and counterterrorism in Africa

Abstract

This Chapter presents a conceptualisation of Information and communication technology (ICT), Cyber Security and Cyber Terrorism to guide the understanding of their rising significance in the 21st century. It provides a background on ICT, Cyber Security and Cyber Terrorism development in Africa by discussing the emerging ICT and cybersecurity ecosystem in Africa comparing existing infrastructures, architecture, gaps, and geographic maturity to developed countries. The Chapter reviews existing trends and implications of ICT and Cyber Security in a violent world considering the various instruments of mobilisation as well as the role of different digital platforms in various global security crises. It focuses on the deficits of Science, Technology, ICT and Cyber Security in Africa, highlighting existing whitespaces, anticipated growth and the way forward for Africa’s ICT, Cyber Security and ICT-Driven Counterterrorism in a violent world. It offers some policy blueprints for transforming and improving Africa’s preparedness for counterterrorism and counterinsurgency through ICT and cyber-security.