EASF Launches Cybersecurity and Cyber Terrorism Workshop in Kigali

Kigali – September 8, 2025 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has launched a five-day regional workshop on cybersecurity and cyber terrorism awareness at the Paramount Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. The event, themed “Think Smart, Stay Safe: Youth Against Cyber Threats,” aims to raise awareness, build regional capacity, and engage youth in combating emerging digital threats.

Organized in collaboration with the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), the workshop brings together cybersecurity experts, digital influencers, and youth representatives from across Eastern Africa.

EASF IT Officer Faustian Ngaboyimanzi officially welcomed participants, emphasizing the importance of strengthening indigenous resilience to growing cyber threats. He expressed gratitude to the Guest of Honour, the EASF Head of Administration and Finance, Colonel Mohamed Adan Barkat, and the lead facilitation team for their support. “I warmly welcome you all to this important cybersecurity and cyber terrorism awareness workshop,” he said, highlighting the value of engaging law enforcement, youth forums, and police institutions in a shared effort to combat cyber risks.

Colonel David Kanamugire, the CEO of Rwanda’s National Cyber Security Authority, the Guest of Honour, welcomed the EASF delegation and applauded their commitment to a secure and inclusive digital future. He also highlighted the growing risks posed by cybercrime and the need for youth to be vigilant digital citizens.

EASF’s Head of Administration and Finance, Colonel Mohamed Adan Barkat, expressed gratitude to the government and people of Rwanda for their hospitality. He emphasized Rwanda’s leadership in digital innovation and its strong participation in regional security initiatives. “This workshop is a timely initiative to build awareness, strengthen institutional capacity, and foster cooperation against cyber threats,” said Col. Barkat. He stressed that cross-border collaboration is vital as cyber threats often transcend national boundaries.

The lead facilitator, Dr. Martin Koyabe, who reflected on Rwanda’s digital journey and praised its progress in cybersecurity since early initiatives in 2015 and 2016. “It’s an honour to return to Kigali, where this journey began,” he noted. Alongside his colleagues, will guide participants through topics such as cyber terrorism, online harm, grooming, and the impact of digital threats on youth mental health.

Participants will explore key topics, including the use of ICTs by terrorist groups, counter-terrorism technologies, online radicalization, digital forensics, and the legal and policy frameworks for cybersecurity. Practical sessions will focus on real-world cyber incident response and youth engagement strategies.

Col. Barkat encouraged attendees to engage actively, share knowledge, and work toward practical outcomes that will enhance regional cyber resilience.

The workshop underscores EASF’s commitment to promoting security and stability in the digital domain across Eastern Africa.