"African Inter-Governmental Coordination and Cooperation for a Safer Internet"

Challenges related to cyber crime and Internet security pose a serious threat to the confidence and progress of Internet service worldwide including in Africa. Therefore, AfriNIC is advocating increased communications and coordination with the National Regulatory Authorities, governments, policy makers and the technical community to improve confidence and trust in the cyberspace.

"African Inter-Governmental Coordination and Cooperation for a Safer Internet" is the theme at the AfriNIC Government Working Group – Law Enforcement Event that is scheduled to take place 25 – 26 January 2010, at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel, Cyber City, Mauritius.

During this two-day event that is closed to government officials who are responsible for law enforcement and cyber security, participants will discuss: current challenges with Internet-related crimes; steps being taken by law enforcement agencies; ways in which these challenges manifest in their respective countries and potential efforts to combat such challenges; ideas to promote security by facilitating global cooperation and coordination; insight into the Internet Ecosystem and its governance; National CERT (Computer Emergency Readiness Team) Programs implemented in the African region; and, how government agencies can participate in the policy development process to ensure their voices are heard regarding Internet protection issues.

"We are looking forward to this very important opportunity to exchange with government law enforcement agencies in our region. Creating strong alliances and sharing information between governments is a step in the right direction to achieving a more secure and safer Internet and AfriNIC is committed to continuing its efforts to facilitate such initiatives" stated Mr. Adiel Akplogan, CEO, AfriNIC.

Government officials representing various countries in the African region will attend this event, as well as the US Department of Justice, Council of Europe, ICANN/IANA, and other RIR organisations.

The African Network Information Center (AfriNIC) is the Regional Internet Registry (RIR) for Africa, responsible for the distribution and management of Internet number resources throughout the African region.