Ghana Unveils Africa’s Largest AI-Powered Cybersecurity Centre in Accra

ACCRA, Ghana – 20 May 2025 – Ghana has officially launched Africa’s largest artificial intelligence-powered cybersecurity and digital forensics centre in Accra, a major milestone in the continent’s battle against sophisticated cyber threats. Developed by local cybersecurity firm Virtual InfoSec Africa Limited (VIA) in collaboration with global SIEM leader Exabeam and Arctic Security, the facility is positioned to slash security costs for businesses while drastically improving threat response capabilities.

This move comes amid an evolving cyber threat landscape where traditional defences are no longer sufficient, and AI-powered attacks are on the rise. The centre aims to strengthen Ghana’s digital resilience while setting a precedent for cybersecurity innovation across Africa.

A New Era of African Cybersecurity

Strategic Launch Amid Rising Threats

The launch of the AI Security Operations Centre (SOC) was officially announced in Accra in May 2025. According to Divine Selase Agbeti, Director General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), who was represented by Isaac Socrates Mensah, this initiative is a timely response to the increasing velocity and sophistication of cyberattacks targeting African nations.

“The threat landscape is evolving at breakneck speed, and we need to build resilience at an equally faster pace,” said Mr. Agbeti.

Chaired by Nana Kwaku Boateng III, Omanhene of the New Juabeng Traditional Area, the event underscored the cultural and national importance of digital security. The traditional leader called for collective responsibility among government, the private sector, and citizens.

Technical Backbone and Capabilities

Powered by Exabeam’s AI and Behavioural Analytics

The facility’s SOC is equipped with real-time threat detection, managed detection and response (MDR), and vulnerability management powered by Exabeam’s AI-driven behavioural analytics platform. According to Norvisi Addo, Head of Security Operations at VIA, this ensures a rapid and intelligent response to modern cyber threats.

“Traditional defence mechanisms are being outpaced. AI has a very clear impact on our space, especially in the hands of cyber attackers,” Addo emphasized.

The centre also leverages global threat intelligence streams via its partnership with Arctic Security, ensuring that both local businesses and government agencies benefit from up-to-the-minute insights into malicious activities.

Regional and Global Implications

A Model for Africa and Beyond

The new facility isn’t just a win for Ghana—it is positioned as a regional cybersecurity benchmark. With its ability to cut capital investments in cybersecurity by over 90% and reduce operational costs by 60%, the model is scalable across other African countries struggling with resource limitations.

According to Essam Ahmed, Regional Director for Africa and Pakistan at Exabeam:

“We’re not here to sell, we’re here to stand beside the country. Together, we’re building the digital shield of a nation.”

Compared to similar AI-based cybersecurity services in Europe, North America, and Asia, Ghana’s model uniquely emphasizes affordability, local talent development, and strategic public-private partnerships a framework other emerging economies may seek to replicate.

Community and Leadership Support

Traditional and Government Endorsements

During his address, Nana Kwaku Boateng III highlighted the broader societal need for secure digital transformation:

“Safeguarding the digital space requires more than just tools. It demands unity of purpose, shared responsibility, and sustainability in knowledge and innovation.”

This multi-sector endorsement, which includes traditional authorities, underscores the widespread support for cybersecurity as a national and continental priority.

Cybersecurity TTPs and MITRE ATT&CK Mapping (Boxed Section)

Source: VIA internal SOC documentation, as referenced during launch.

Actionable Takeaways for Security Professionals and Executives

1. Leverage AI-Based Solutions – Upgrade from traditional firewalls to behaviour-driven SIEM and threat detection.
2. Reduce Cost Through Centralised SOCs – Regional collaboration can lower cybersecurity services costs significantly.
3. Localise Incident Response – Develop capabilities aligned with regional threat intelligence rather than relying solely on global feeds.
4. Invest in Human-AI Collaboration – Use AI to assist analysts, not replace them—train SOC teams to interpret AI outputs.
5. Engage Stakeholders Beyond Tech Teams – Involve policymakers, traditional leaders, and end-users in awareness and security training.
6. Embrace Public-Private Partnerships – Strategic alliances like VIA-Exabeam offer both scalability and affordability.
7. Prioritise MDR over Static Defences – Modern attackers are agile; ensure your defences are too.
8. Conduct Regular Threat Assessments – Use regional attack simulations to test your posture.
9. Focus on Local Needs – Build security architecture tailored to national infrastructures and compliance requirements.
10. Advocate for Cybersecurity Regulation – Push for frameworks that enable innovation while protecting citizen data.

Conclusion

The launch of Africa’s largest AI-driven security centre marks a defining moment for the continent’s cybersecurity evolution. Ghana’s model presents a replicable, cost-effective solution that addresses both technical and socioeconomic challenges in securing digital infrastructure. As cyber threats intensify globally, this bold initiative from Accra signals that Africa is ready not just to keep pace but to lead in cyber resilience.

Sources

• GhanaWeb – Ghana launches AI-driven cybersecurity centre
• MyJoyOnline – Ghana opens largest AI-based digital security hub
• Exabeam Official Website
• Cyber Security Authority Ghana
• Arctic Security
• MITRE ATT&CK Framework
• CyberCory – Cybersecurity News and Trends
• SaintyNet – Cybersecurity Services & Awareness