Gender parity gap in cyber security being bridged in Africa

Gender parity in the cybersecurity sector has been a long-standing issue, with men dominating the field for years. However, in recent times, there has been a noticeable shift, especially in Africa, where more women are entering the cybersecurity arena. Wairimu Wahome, Cyber Security, Governance, Risk, and Compliance Lead at Mastercard Foundation, sheds light on the current trends and the actions needed to bridge the gender gap. Wahome highlights the increasing representation of women in boardrooms and government positions, signaling a positive change in the industry. Despite the progress, there is still room for improvement in ensuring gender equality in STEM education and employment. African governments, according to Wahome, play a crucial role in promoting women in cybersecurity through policy implementation, partnerships with organizations, and early exposure to STEM for young girls. By nurturing the interest and providing support to women in STEM fields, governments can pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive cybersecurity sector. Additionally, Wahome addresses the challenges faced by companies in meeting cybersecurity metrics and emphasizes the importance of adopting proper Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) structures to effectively manage cyber threats and ensure business continuity. The road to gender parity in cybersecurity may be long, but with concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals, the industry can become more diverse, secure, and resilient.