Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Focus on strengthening cybersecurity capabilities across Africa and Arab States
- Emphasis on collaboration between national CIRTs, CERTs, SOCs, and law enforcement
- Strategic discussions on emerging cyber threats and regional security challenges
- Promotion of international standards and best practices in cybersecurity
- Hands-on sessions centered on reflection, knowledge sharing, learning, and practical exercises
The 2026 ITU Inter-Regional CyberDrill for Africa and Arab States Regions is set to take place from 30 June to 3 July 2026 at Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Hosted by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), this gathering brings together senior ICT and cybersecurity officials to address the evolving landscape of cyber threats facing the region.
Strengthening Regional Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity remains a critical concern for both Africa and the Arab States, where digital transformation is accelerating and threat actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated. The CyberDrill aims to reinforce technical capabilities, streamline incident response, and foster robust communication channels among national cybersecurity teams. By focusing on operational readiness, the event seeks to help countries in the region build resilience against a rapidly changing threat environment.
Strategic Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
One of the central themes of the event is collaboration—both within and between countries. The CyberDrill provides a platform for national CIRTs, CERTs, SOCs, and law enforcement agencies to exchange insights, share experiences, and develop coordinated strategies. This collaborative approach is essential for tackling cross-border cybercrime and ensuring a unified response to incidents that can impact multiple jurisdictions.
Building Capacity and Adopting Best Practices
Participants will engage in sessions designed to enhance their ability to prevent, detect, investigate, and disrupt cybercrime. The event also places a strong emphasis on the adoption of international cybersecurity standards and best practices, recognizing that harmonized approaches are vital for effective defense and recovery. By facilitating regional knowledge sharing, the CyberDrill supports member states in developing the skills and frameworks needed to address both current and emerging threats.
Thematic Focus: Reflect, Share, Learn, Practice
The structure of the CyberDrill revolves around four core concepts: Reflect, Share, Learn, and Practice. This approach ensures that participants not only gain theoretical knowledge but also have the opportunity to apply what they learn in practical scenarios. The event’s agenda is crafted to encourage open dialogue, critical assessment of existing strategies, and hands-on exercises that simulate real-world incidents.
Industry Relevance and Timeliness
As digital infrastructure becomes more integral to economic and social development across Africa and the Arab States, the importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks cannot be overstated. The 2026 ITU Inter-Regional CyberDrill arrives at a time when regional cooperation and capacity building are essential for safeguarding national interests and supporting sustainable digital growth.