To bolster its cyber resilience and address cyber risks, Debswana Diamond Company recently partnered with the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to combat cyber threats within its operations.
The MoU centers on four key areas: cyber security training and capacity building, monitoring the Debswana attack surface, incident response support, and access to a network of experts and peers for collaboration with local, regional, and international players in the cybersecurity domain, including the Botswana Security Cluster.
During the signing ceremony for the MoU, Andrew Motsumi, the Managing Director of Debswana, said that in the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the risks and challenges in cyberspace continue to rise. He highlighted that while technology enhances efficiency, transformation, and convenience, it also opens doors for malicious actors.
“This complex scenario demands constant vigilance and readiness to mitigate potential threats,” he added.
As a key revenue source for its shareholders, Motsumi emphasised that Debswana cannot afford disruptions caused by cyber incidents, particularly cyber-attacks orchestrated by criminal elements.
“Debswana’s 2024 business strategy, known as “Debswana 2024: One Dream, One Team,” is a comprehensive blueprint for technology-centred transformation aimed at protecting shareholder returns in a challenging business environment. Key deliverables include future smart connected mining through the digitisation of our operations, operational excellence, technology, innovation and sustainability initiatives,” he said.
Motsumi stated that this strategy proactively responds to emerging challenges, such as cyber-attacks, by leveraging collaborative partnerships and data-driven decision-making. He said this approach aims to drive success and create a better future for Botswana.
He further assured that the MoU was crafted with the utmost consideration and adherence to the Data Protection Act. Additionally, he added that Debswana employees, partners, and stakeholders can trust in the agreement’s integrity.
For his part, BOCRA Chief Executive Officer Martin Mokgware shared that as a communications sector regulator, BOCRA plays a crucial coordinating role in guaranteeing online safety in Botswana.
“The signing of this MoU signifies an unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit towards fortifying our capabilities in safeguarding our digital environments, among others,” he said.
Mokgware said Debswana is one of the largest users of communications services, particularly radiofrequency spectrum and two-way radio communication. He added that as its mining operations progress, the use of interconnected technologies will intensify.
“Increased use of interconnected technologies will inevitably attract cybercrime. When that happens, the MoU we are signing today will have long prepared the environment for effective response,” he added.
