Algiers – In a significant move to bolster digital security across the African continent, the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL) and global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at combating cybercrime and improving the exchange of information related to cyber threats. The agreement was formalized on Monday at AFRIPOL’s headquarters in Algiers, marking a key milestone in the region’s efforts to strengthen its digital defenses.
The five-year agreement, signed by AFRIPOL’s Acting Executive Director, Mr. Jalal Shalba, and Kaspersky’s founder and CEO, Mr. Eugene Kaspersky, focuses on enhancing data exchange related to cybersecurity threats. Kaspersky will provide AFRIPOL with critical cyber threat data for forensic intelligence analysis, helping to improve the collective ability to respond to and mitigate cyber risks across Africa.
In addition to data sharing, the agreement includes provisions for Kaspersky’s experts to offer support, technical expertise, and knowledge in information security analysis. This partnership is expected to significantly boost AFRIPOL’s capacity to fight cybercrime, enhance resilience against cyber threats, and contribute to the protection of Africa’s digital infrastructure.
During the signing ceremony, Mr. Shalba emphasized the importance of the agreement in strengthening Africa’s digital defense and safeguarding the digital space for African citizens. He stated that this collaboration would not only improve Africa’s response to cyber threats but also build greater digital trust and resilience across the continent.
Mr. Kaspersky echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the agreement would contribute to a safer digital environment for all. He stressed that the joint efforts between Kaspersky and AFRIPOL would lead to a more secure cyberspace and enhance Africa’s cybersecurity resilience.
This cooperation marks a significant step forward in AFRIPOL’s mission to address the growing challenges of cybercrime and ensure that African nations are better equipped to face the evolving landscape of digital threats.
