Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Focuses on OT/ICS cybersecurity for critical infrastructure sectors in Africa
- Brings together senior security leaders, plant CISOs, engineering directors, and policymakers
- Addresses sector-specific challenges in energy, mining, transport, and water utilities
- Explores OT/IT convergence, regulatory compliance, and evolving threat landscapes
- Invitation-only, fostering peer learning and strategic networking among qualified professionals
OT Security First Africa 2026 in Johannesburg stands as a dedicated summit for industrial cybersecurity, with a sharp focus on Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) security. Organized by Events First Group, the event convenes a select group of OT/ICS security leaders, plant CISOs, engineering directors, and critical-infrastructure defenders from across Africa and the broader region. The summit is designed to address the unique and pressing cybersecurity challenges faced by sectors such as energy, utilities, mining, transport, and water.
Industry Context and Relevance
As digital transformation accelerates across Africa’s critical infrastructure, the convergence of OT and IT environments has introduced new vulnerabilities and operational complexities. Legacy systems, often foundational to industrial operations, now face sophisticated cyber threats that can disrupt essential services. The summit’s focus on OT/ICS security reflects a growing recognition that traditional IT security approaches are insufficient for the unique demands of industrial environments.
Discussion Themes and Strategic Focus
Key topics at the summit include OT/ICS cybersecurity strategies, digital transformation, and the operational realities of OT/IT convergence. Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) frameworks are explored in depth, with particular attention to POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) compliance—a critical concern for organizations operating in South Africa. Sector-specific sessions address the distinct security challenges faced by energy providers, mining operations, transport networks, and water utilities, drawing on the expertise of leaders from organizations such as Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd, Sasol, and ISACA South Africa Chapter.
Audience and Value Proposition
The summit is tailored for senior professionals responsible for safeguarding Africa’s most vital infrastructure. Attendees include OT/ICS security leaders, plant CISOs, engineering directors, compliance officers, and government cyber policymakers. The invitation-only format ensures a focused environment for peer learning, strategic dialogue, and high-value networking. By prioritizing education and thought leadership over product marketing, the event fosters genuine knowledge exchange and community building among critical-infrastructure defenders.
Operational Challenges and Emerging Trends
Participants engage with the operational challenges of securing legacy OT environments, managing the complexities of OT/IT integration, and aligning cybersecurity strategies with both organizational and national priorities. The evolving threat landscape—marked by targeted attacks on critical infrastructure—underscores the urgency of robust, sector-specific security measures. The summit also provides a platform for discussing government cyber policy and the practical implications of regulatory changes.
Format and Experience
OT Security First Africa 2026 is structured as an executive-level, in-person summit. The agenda features keynote presentations, panel discussions, and curated networking opportunities, all designed to facilitate meaningful connections and actionable insights. The event’s emphasis on invitation-only participation ensures that discussions remain relevant and impactful for those at the forefront of industrial cybersecurity in Africa.