Strengthening National Cyber Defense: ARPCE and ANSSI Join Forces to Secure Congo’s Networks and Cyberspace

In a strategic move to bolster the resilience of Congo’s digital infrastructure, the Agence de Régulation des Postes et des Communications Électroniques (ARPCE) and the Agence Nationale de Sécurité des Systèmes d’Information (ANSSI) officially signed a cooperation agreement on April 25, 2025. This milestone aims to unify their technical expertise and establish a robust framework for tackling cybersecurity threats and safeguarding national cyberspace in an era of rapid digital transformation

In the presence of Mr. Jean Dominique OKEMBA, Secretary General of the National Security Council, the ARPCE and ANSSI formalized a strategic partnership to enhance Congo’s cybersecurity posture. The signing ceremony marked a pivotal moment in national efforts to protect critical digital infrastructure and respond to the growing complexity of cyber threats.

The agreement reflects Congo’s proactive stance amidst Sub-Saharan Africa’s digital revolution. With a mobile penetration rate nearing 93% translating to 5.2 million mobile users in a country of just over six million the Congolese Republic has emerged as a leader in mobile adoption across the region. However, this surge in connectivity brings increased exposure to cyberattacks, digital fraud, and threats to national digital sovereignty.

Key Objectives of the ARPCE-ANSSI Agreement:

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) sets out a comprehensive framework to address cybersecurity challenges through the following strategic pillars:

1. Information Sharing:
   Establishment of a secure and regular communication mechanism between the two institutions for reporting and analyzing cybersecurity incidents and emerging threats.
2. Incident Coordination:
   Joint response strategies to manage cybersecurity incidents, particularly those impacting telecommunications infrastructure.
3. Permanent Dialogue Structure:
   Creation of a bilateral committee to maintain continuous consultation and evaluation of the digital threat landscape.
4. Capacity Building and Joint Protocols:
   Collaborative training initiatives and the development of shared incident response procedures to ensure readiness against both routine and advanced threats.

This approach is designed to build an integrated ecosystem that strengthens digital trust across all sectors public and private while reinforcing state sovereignty over its cyber domain.

Leadership Statements:

Louis-Marc SAKALA, Director General of ARPCE, emphasized the strategic scope of this collaboration:

“This partnership reflects a broader vision—a sovereign and resilient digital Congo. It’s a testament to our shared commitment to building a secure digital environment, which is fundamental to the development of our digital economy.”

Meanwhile, Conrad Onésime OBOULHAS TSAHAT, Director General of ANSSI, underlined the importance of inter-agency cooperation:

“Protecting our national cyberspace cannot be achieved in silos. This agreement is a significant step forward in fostering synergy between regulatory and security entities. Our combined efforts will ultimately benefit all stakeholders telecom operators, consumers, and the state by ensuring the integrity of our critical digital infrastructure.”

10 Cybersecurity Recommendations for Strengthening National Resilience:

1. Foster Public-Private Partnerships:
   Encourage deeper collaboration between government, telecom operators, and private sector technology providers to detect and mitigate threats faster.
2. Invest in Local Cyber Talent:
   Develop training programs and incentives to cultivate a new generation of cybersecurity professionals within Congo.
3. Implement National Cybersecurity Drills:
   Conduct regular incident response simulations involving all critical stakeholders to stress-test national preparedness.
4. Develop Sector-Specific Cyber Protocols:
   Establish tailored security frameworks for industries like banking, healthcare, and energy that face sector-specific threats.
5. Create a National Threat Intelligence Sharing Platform:
   Establish a real-time alert system for reporting cyber incidents across government agencies and businesses.
6. Mandate Minimum Cybersecurity Standards for ISPs and Telecoms:
   Ensure that service providers enforce baseline security controls such as encryption and authentication across networks.
7. Raise Public Awareness:
   Launch nationwide awareness campaigns to educate citizens on digital hygiene, phishing, and fraud prevention.
8. Adopt a National Zero Trust Architecture:
   Shift to a “never trust, always verify” model to reduce the risk of insider threats and lateral movement by attackers.
9. Implement Strong Data Privacy Laws:
   Accelerate the creation and enforcement of comprehensive data protection regulations aligned with international standards.
10. Engage International Cybersecurity Alliances:
    Collaborate with regional and global institutions to share intelligence and adopt best practices in cyber defense.

Conclusion:

The partnership between ARPCE and ANSSI marks a watershed moment in the Republic of Congo’s digital evolution. By integrating their cybersecurity mandates, these two key institutions are setting the stage for a future where national infrastructure is not only connected but secure, trusted, and resilient.

As cyber threats grow in frequency and sophistication, this joint initiative sends a strong signal: Congo is ready to protect its digital frontier. For stakeholders across government, industry, and civil society, this agreement lays the groundwork for a safer digital environment that supports innovation, economic growth, and public trust.

This development should also serve as a model for other nations navigating the dual challenge of digital advancement and cyber risk, underscoring the power of collaboration and shared responsibility in securing cyberspace.