By Chisomo Phiri

The Head of the Malawi Computer Emergency Response Team (mwCERT), Christopher Banda, says his office has intensified cybersecurity awareness and training initiatives as the country continues to face rising online threats.

Speaking during a cybersecurity awareness campaign and cyber drill held at Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences(MUBAS ) in Blantyre on Thursday, Banda stressed the importance of equipping Malawians particularly students with the necessary knowledge and skills to stay safe online.

“We understand that a lot of threats are emerging, especially now that everyone is going digital. It is important for users to know what they should and should not do online in order to protect themselves,” he said.

According to Banda, the program focuses on two key areas which are creating awareness on online safety and conducting technical cyber drills.

He explained that students are being introduced to real-life cybersecurity challenges from the industry, an approach that not only enhances their studies but also inspires some to specialize in various cybersecurity fields.

“Cybersecurity is a global problem, not just a Malawian issue. As more people adopt digital services, cyber threats are also increasing.Criminals are taking advantage of this shift to launch attacks such as ransomware and mobile money fraud.That is why it is crucial for everyone to be aware and cautious when online,” explained Banda.

He further revealed that CERT Malawi is partnering with universities across the country, especially those offering technical programs, to encourage the development of cybersecurity-related courses.

Banda said the shortage of trained professionals in the sector poses a challenge to the industry.

“If universities can come up with more cybersecurity programs, we will be able to strengthen our cyber space with well-trained professionals. Currently, very few institutions are offering such programs, yet the demand is high,” said Banda.

He also highlighted the critical role cybersecurity will play as Malawi approaches the next general elections.

He noted that election periods worldwide are often marked by an increase in cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns.

“As we head towards the elections, cyberspace attacks are becoming a serious challenge globally. We are therefore engaging different stakeholders, coordinating with partners, and conducting training sessions to ensure that Malawi is alert and well-prepared in the event of any cyber incident,” he said.

On his part, Head of Department of Computer Science and Information Systems (CSIS) at MUBAS, Dr. Patrick Chikumba said the institution has introduced new academic programs in cyber security as part of efforts to build national capacity in digital security.

Chikumba said the initiative is aimed at equipping young people with the necessary skills to safeguard the country’s growing digital space.

“Our population is largely composed of youth, and when we talk about digital transformation, youth are at the center of it. We cannot talk about digital development without them.Engaging students in this area is crucial to ensure that our nation becomes literate in cyber issues, and that they emerge as pioneers and champions of cyber security,” he said.

Chikumba further explained that the department is working closely with stakeholders in the cyber security sector to strengthen capacity building.

“To address the demand for cyber security skills, we have introduced new programs. One of them is a Diploma in Cyber Security, which targets individuals who may not be at university level but still want to acquire practical skills. In addition, we have rolled out a Degree in Cyber Security aimed at producing experts who can support Malawi in safeguarding its digital systems,” he said.

Chikumba emphasized that the programs are a strategic step toward positioning Malawi as a digitally secure nation, while empowering the youth to take a leading role in shaping the country’s digital future.

The initiative by CERT Malawi comes at a time when the country is increasingly embracing digital services, a shift that, while beneficial, also exposes users to a wide range of online risks.