The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) says about 1,400 individuals and businesses have initiated the process of obtaining licences and accreditation since the implementation of Ghana's cybersecurity regulatory regime in March 2023.

According to the CSA's latest press release, as of February 19, 2024, the authority had registered a total of 1,137 Cybersecurity Professionals (CPs), 194 Cybersecurity Service Providers (CSPs), and 52 Cybersecurity Establishments (CEs), bringing the total number of registrants to 1,383.

While some entities have received provisional licences, others are progressing through various stages of the licensing and accreditation process.

In line with the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), which mandates all existing CSPs, CEs, and CPs to obtain licences or accreditation by December 31, 2023, entities operating without proper authorisations are prohibited from conducting business in Ghana.

The CSA reiterated its commitment to enforcing the provisions of Act 1038, warning that individuals and businesses offering cybersecurity services without proper licensing or accreditation will face legal repercussions, including administrative penalties and criminal prosecutions.

To facilitate the licensing and accreditation process, the CSA has established a dedicated clinic at its premises in Accra, aimed at assisting qualified CSPs, CEs, and CPs in completing the online application process.

The clinic operates every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until the end of the first quarter of 2024.

In efforts to ensure compliance across sectors, the CSA has partnered with the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) to ensure that public institutions seeking cybersecurity services engage only licensed and accredited entities. Additionally, there are collaborations with the Judicial Service of Ghana that aim to enforce Act 1038 in all relevant legal proceedings.

Businesses and individuals seeking cybersecurity services are advised to verify the licensing or accreditation status of entities through the CSA's online authentication system or by contacting the authority directly for due diligence purposes.

These measures underscore the CSA's commitment to regulatory compliance and safeguarding Ghana's digital ecosystem in alignment with domestic laws and international best practices.

The CSA asked institutions and individuals seeking further clarity to reach it via email at compliance@csa.gov.gh or by telephone at 0531140408.