The National Cybersecurity Authority of Rwanda (NCSA), in collaboration with Cisco and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) has unveiled the CyberHub, a center dedicated to cybersecurity talent development and innovation.

Situated at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology in Kigali, the CyberHub features a cybersecurity academy, an innovation hub and state-of-the-art technology labs.

CyberHub aims to expand access to the Cisco Networking Academy, offering training in digital literacy, artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced cybersecurity certifications.

It provides students and industry professionals with hands-on opportunities to explore emerging technologies, including Cisco solutions that leverage AI and machine learning to improve threat detection, investigation and response.

At the launch, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire emphasized that cybersecurity is not just about defense, it’s a driver of economic growth.

Rwanda's Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire

Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire. (Source: NCSA)

Ingabire urged the CyberHub to go beyond training to fostering jobs, services and startups.

“The success of the CyberHub will be measured by how well it connects talent to opportunity and strengthens Rwanda’s digital resilience,” she said.

The NCSA CEO David Kanamugire thanked key partners for helping launch the CyberHub, calling it a significant milestone in Rwanda’s journey to develop highly skilled talent in cybersecurity and data protection.

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CyberHub to support Rwanda’s cybersecurity sector

The center is aiming for an annual output of 200 graduates, with a commitment to ensuring that at least 30% of them are women.

This initiative forms part of Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, which launched in East Africa in 2023.

With over 1,600 projects across 50 countries, the CDA program is designed to foster inclusive and sustainable innovation ecosystems, bolster digital resilience and equip citizens with the skills needed to thrive in the technology sector.

“We are delighted to launch CyberHub, a major initiative to develop specialized cybersecurity and data protection talent and to support the Rwandan cybersecurity ecosystem. Through modern infrastructure and tailored programs, we aim to address critical skills gaps and prepare a workforce capable of tackling digital challenges,” NCSA said in a statement.



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