By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Communication, Technology and Innovation has intensified efforts to strengthen Sierra Leone’s fight against cybercrime, summoning officials of the National Cyber Security Coordination Centre to address growing concerns over online fraud, fake social media accounts, digital extortion, cyberbullying and online defamation.
The engagement was chaired by Hon. Boston Munda, Member of Parliament for Constituency 021 in Kenema District, representing the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), who emphasized the urgent need for effective enforcement of the country’s cyber security laws.
Addressing officials during the session, Hon. Boston Munda recalled that Parliament dedicated more than two years to developing and enacting cyber security legislation aimed at protecting citizens from the increasing dangers associated with the digital space. He noted that the laws were designed to safeguard women, children, public officials and the general public from online abuse, misinformation, identity theft and other forms of cyber-related crimes.
He stressed that while the legal framework has been established, effective implementation and public awareness are essential to ensure that the objectives of the legislation are fully realized.
Responding to the committee, officials from the National Cyber Security Coordination Centre highlighted several significant achievements made in strengthening the country’s cyber resilience. They disclosed that Sierra Leone has established a National Computer Incident Response Team to monitor and respond to cyber threats, as well as a Digital Forensics Laboratory to support investigations into cyber-related offences.
The officials also informed lawmakers that the Centre has been conducting nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on safe online practices and the dangers of cybercrime. They further noted that the Government continues to work closely with ECOWAS, regional partners, international organizations and global technology platforms to improve the detection, investigation and prevention of cyber threats.
Members of the committee, however, expressed concerns about the country’s level of preparedness to tackle increasingly sophisticated cybercriminal activities. Discussions focused on the security of banking and mobile money platforms, the growing misuse of social media and the challenges associated with tracking and prosecuting individuals operating fake online accounts.
Lawmakers also sought assurances that the relevant institutions possess the technical capacity and resources needed to effectively enforce cyber security laws and protect critical national digital infrastructure.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Boston Munda called for stronger collaboration among Government institutions, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications companies and technology stakeholders to address the growing threat of cybercrime.
He emphasized that the fight against online fraud, extortion, digital defamation and the misuse of technology requires a coordinated national approach and sustained public education.
Hon. Boston Munda concluded by reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s cyber security framework remains effective and responsive, stressing that protecting citizens and preserving trust in the digital environment is a collective responsibility shared by Government, institutions and the public.
