Kaspersky and the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL) have solidified their collaboration to combat the growing cybercrime threat across Africa by signing a five-year cooperation agreement.
This landmark partnership, signed on November 18 at AFRIPOL’s headquarters in Algiers, aims to enhance cybersecurity and protect the continent’s digital landscape through intelligence sharing and advanced technical support.
Kaspersky AFRIPOL partnership: Addressing Africa’s Unique Cyberthreat Landscape
Africa’s evolving cyberthreat environment, particularly its high susceptibility to industrial threats, has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced cooperation. Notably, the continent has the highest share of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) computers targeted by malicious activities, according to Kaspersky’s data. The new agreement will focus on sharing critical threat intelligence and trends to enable AFRIPOL to analyze and counter cybercriminal activities effectively. 
Kaspersky will also provide expert technical support, including cutting-edge information security analysis and know-how. This collaboration aims to reinforce AFRIPOL’s operational capabilities, making it better equipped to safeguard the digital ecosystem of African nations.
Kaspersky’s CEO, Eugene Kaspersky, spoke on the importance of global cooperation in tackling cybercrime:
“An effective fight against cybercrime is inconceivable without cooperation. By equipping AFRIPOL with both the information and technology required for responding to emerging cyberthreats, we hope to enhance our contribution in fostering greater cyber-resilience and a safer cyberspace for all.”
Ambassador Jalel Chelba, AFRIPOL’s Acting Executive Director, echoed these sentiments:
“This agreement with Kaspersky represents a major step forward in strengthening Africa’s digital defenses. By leveraging Kaspersky’s expertise and resources, we are enhancing AFRIPOL’s ability to counter cyber threats and creating a secure digital space for all African citizens.”
Strengthening Trust and Operational Frameworks
The partnership builds on a history of joint initiatives between Kaspersky and AFRIPOL, including significant contributions to the Africa Cyber Surge Operation led by INTERPOL. These efforts have disrupted cybercriminal networks and provided actionable intelligence across the continent. Additionally, AFRIPOL endorsed Kaspersky’s first Transparency Center in Rwanda, furthering efforts to promote digital trust.
Both organizations view this partnership as a pivotal move toward greater resilience and trust in Africa’s digital domain, addressing vulnerabilities while building capacity to confront future threats.
Finally, the agreement shows the importance of public-private collaboration in tackling global cyber threats. As Africa is becoming a digital frontier, the Kaspersky and AFRIPOL partnership protects critical infrastructure and reinforces Africa’s role in the global cyber landscape.
What steps can other areas take to strengthen their defenses? Comment below.
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