On 24 and 25 November 2022, the Information Systems and Digital Agency (ASIN) organised an awareness workshop for decision-makers and senior officials of priority State bodies on the State Information Systems Security Policy (PSSIE).
In its drive towards a secure cyberspace, Benin has drawn up strategic documents setting out the main guidelines and the activities to be implemented to achieve the intended objectives. Accordingly, by Decree No. 2021-550 of 27 October 2021, the Government of the Republic of Benin approved the State Information Systems Security Policy, which stems from its National Digital Security Strategy (SNSN). This policy document is a compendium of technical, physical and organisational requirements and measures for the security of the information systems of State entities and bodies.
At the opening of the proceedings, Ms Aurelie ADAM SOULE ZOUMAROU explained that the Government's approach is to involve all the Republic's decision-makers in the implementation of the PSSIE in order to guarantee a secure cyberspace for a thriving digital economy. “Security is at the heart of the ongoing digital transformation, and it was important for the Government to plan this awareness-raising for decision-makers, who are at the first level of vulnerability,” she stressed.
Over two days, members of the Inter-ministerial Committee and officials and heads of priority State bodies were made aware of the PSSIE and its implementation within their respective bodies. On this occasion, Mr Marc-André LOKO, Director General of ASIN, welcomed the participation of officials and decision-makers at the highest level of the State in this workshop. At the end of the discussions, the following recommendations were made to participants:
The appointment of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in each body;
Provision of a dedicated budget allocation for digital security each year;
The publication of a circular on compliance with the PSSIE within bodies.
Participants were addressed by Mr Ouanilo MEDEGAN, Head of the Digital Security Division at ASIN, and Mr Clément DOMINGO, expert cybersecurity consultant and founder of “Hackers Sans Frontières”.