The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has underscored the need for a comprehensive cybersecurity framework and robust data privacy controls to support the safe and efficient adoption of cryptocurrency and digital currency systems across central banks in West Africa.

The Bank believes this objective can only be achieved through enhanced regional cooperation among member states.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the WAIFEM Regional Course on Cybersecurity and Crypto/Digital Currency in Accra, the Acting Head of Cyber and Information Security at the BoG, Daniel Klu, who delivered a speech on behalf of the Governor, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, stressed the importance of building a secure and resilient digital financial ecosystem.

“The success of any digital currency initiative depends on a robust security architecture, legal clarity, effective data privacy safeguards, and strong consumer protection frameworks. A digital currency that is vulnerable to cyberattacks or manipulation could undermine financial stability and public confidence,” Mr. Klu said.

He emphasized that while digital currencies present opportunities for innovation and inclusion, they also introduce new technological and regulatory risks that must be carefully managed.

On his part, Amadou Koora, Director of the Financial Sector and Payment Systems Department at the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), speaking on behalf of the Director-General, Dr. Baba Y. Musa, highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange and collaboration in strengthening the region’s cybersecurity capacity.

“At WAIFEM, we believe that building regional resilience against cyber threats requires more than technology — it requires knowledge, collaboration, and capacity. This course brings together policymakers, regulators, IT professionals, and financial experts from across West Africa to deepen their understanding of emerging digital risks and strengthen the region’s collective response,” he noted.

The week-long regional course aims to equip participants with the technical and policy tools necessary to address cybersecurity challenges associated with digital currencies and fintech innovation, ensuring that West Africa’s financial systems remain secure, trusted, and future-ready.