NTT DATA, formerly Dimension Data, is urging businesses and governments in East Africa to take a fresh look at their cybersecurity strategies. This call to action comes amid the rising influence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen-AI) and the potential security risks it poses.

AI’s Double-Edged Sword

Peter Gitonga, NTT DATA East Africa’s General Manager of Managed Services, acknowledges the transformative power of Gen-AI. However, he warns of the ethical and security challenges that come with it. These include intellectual property theft, privacy breaches, misinformation campaigns, compromised data integrity, lack of control over AI systems, and integration complexities.

Cyberattacks on the Rise in Kenya

Data from Kenya’s Communication Authority paints a worrying picture. Cyberattacks targeting the country have increased more than fivefold in the past year. State agencies, internet and cloud service providers, and academic institutions are being hit the hardest. This trend reflects the growing vulnerability of East Africa’s increasingly digital economies.

Combating Evolving Threats

Gitonga emphasizes the need for robust security strategies that combine people, processes, and technology, with a “zero trust” approach at the core. He cautions against over-reliance on cybersecurity tools alone. Effective implementation, maintenance, and operation require significant investment in expertise and resources.

NTT DATA Offers a Security Suite

To address these challenges, NTT DATA is launching a suite of managed security solutions in East Africa. These include:

• Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
• Digital Forensic & Incidents Response (DFIR)
• Managed Collaboration (MCX) Cloud Solutions
• Advanced Managed Network Services (MNS)

These solutions are designed to help clients improve cybersecurity, cloud management, user experience, and network efficiency. They’ll be delivered through the Adaptive Cloud-to-Edge (ACE) platform, giving NTT DATA the ability to work closely with clients and address their specific needs.

The Benefits of NTT DATA’s Solutions

• Enhanced Cybersecurity: MDR and DFIR provide continuous monitoring and rapid response to cyber threats.
• Secure Cloud Adoption: Managed Public Cloud services enable secure and efficient use of cloud computing.
• Network Efficiency: Network as a Service (NaaS) offers a flexible and cost-effective way to manage network infrastructure.
• Improved User Experience: Managed Collaboration solutions enhance communication and collaboration within organizations.

Embracing the Edge-to-Cloud Strategy

Gitonga highlights the importance of an edge-to-cloud strategy. This approach allows organizations to deliver superior user experiences, improve agility, and mitigate risks.

NTT DATA: A Global Partner for East Africa

Richard Hechle, NTT DATA East Africa’s Managing Director, reaffirms the company’s commitment to the region. They plan to leverage growth opportunities in markets like Ethiopia and Rwanda. As NTT DATA, the company offers a wider range of services and industry solutions, along with access to global expertise.

Collaboration

Hechle emphasizes NTT DATA’s dedication to partnering with local businesses, governments, and stakeholders. Their goal is to deliver solutions that address the unique challenges of East Africa’s digital transformation journey, particularly in the age of AI. This includes strategic partnerships, ongoing investment in local talent development, and infrastructure upgrades.

By offering a comprehensive security suite and partnering with local stakeholders, NTT DATA is well-positioned to help East African organizations thrive in the digital age.