As the world becomes increasingly digital, the threat of state-sponsored cyber attacks looms large. Developing nations, particularly in Africa, must now see themselves as prime targets due to a combination of factors shaping global attention towards the continent. These include rapid digital transformation, strategic economic interests, and shifting alliances. Recent events such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, coups in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, the expansion of BRICS membership to include African countries, and changes in military alliances with France have thrust Africa into the spotlight. Consequently, the risk of cyberattacks on African nations is escalating.

A state-sponsored cyberattack is a malicious attempt to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to computer systems, networks, or devices, funded, directed, or supported by a government or its agencies. Unlike typical cybercriminals, state-sponsored attackers are highly sophisticated and well-organised, with access to significant resources, advanced techniques, and clear motivations to achieve political, economic, military, or strategic goals.

IT Service Management (ITSM) is a set of practices and frameworks that focus on aligning IT services with business objectives. By adopting ITSM discipline and frameworks, African nations can strengthen their cybersecurity posture and effectively counter state-sponsored cyberattacks. Frameworks such as ITIL, COBIT, and ISO/IEC 20000 provide structured approaches to managing IT services, including cybersecurity. These best practices ensure the intersection between governance and management, combining people, products, and technology to deliver sustainable value and security against cyberattacks.

One proactive measure to guard against state-sponsored cyberattacks is the development of national cybersecurity strategies. This demands the establishment of clear policies and guidelines for cybersecurity, including incident response plans and disaster recovery procedures. Empower, equip, and fund national institutions to counter cyberattacks.

Another proactive measure is to implement ITSM best practices. Adopt ITSM frameworks like ITIL to ensure effective management of IT services and assets. Also, conduct regular risk assessments. Identify potential vulnerabilities and threats and implement measures to mitigate them. Invest in cybersecurity awareness and training. Educate citizens, businesses, and government agencies about cybersecurity best practices and the importance of online safety.

Institutionalise good practices and regulation. This can be done by enforcing cybersecurity best practices, standards, and frameworks across government agencies, contractors, and businesses. Foster international cooperation by collaborating with other countries and international organisations to share intelligence, best practices, and resources.

African nations can leverage ITSM discipline and frameworks to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities:

Incident & Problem Management: Establish processes to quickly detect, respond to, and resolve cybersecurity incidents, minimising impact on critical infrastructure and services. Address underlying causes to prevent future incidents.

Change Management: Implement processes ensuring all changes to IT systems and services are properly assessed, approved, and implemented to minimise risks.

Continual Service Improvement: Regularly review and improve cybersecurity services to remain effective and aligned with changing requirements and emerging threats.

By adopting ITSM discipline and frameworks, developing nations in Africa can effectively counter state-sponsored cyberattacks, enhancing their cybersecurity posture, reducing risk, increasing efficiency, and improving collaboration. Through proactive measures, they can ensure the protection of their critical infrastructure, sensitive data, and citizens.

Akano is a seasoned professional with a master’s degree in management information systems.