Ivory Coast tests cyber defenses with 800 participants
The nation's first national cyber crisis simulation, Cyber.Ex 2026, involved public and private sectors to assess response capabilities.
Ivory Coast launched its first national cyber crisis simulation, Cyber.Ex 2026, in Abidjan on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. The exercise brought together 800 participants from government, private companies, cybersecurity experts, and students to test the nation's ability to withstand cyberattacks. Organized by the National Agency for the Security of Information Systems (ANSSI-CI), the event focused on national digital resilience and collective response.
The simulation, themed 'National digital resilience: anticipate, react, bounce back together to ensure security,' specifically involved the energy, information and communication technology (ICT), and finance sectors. Its aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of prevention measures and digital incident management, including attack detection, decision-making speed, response team coordination, and business recovery after intrusions. General Guelpetchin Ouattara, director general of ANSSI-CI, stated that collective preparation is vital for unpredictable threats.
Cyber.Ex 2026, concluding on Thursday, October 29, included executive, technical, and talent development components. The 'Cyber Talents' program featured a master class on cybersecurity law and a 'Capture The Flag' competition for young participants. A 'Cyber Village' also showcased digital protection solutions, highlighting local innovations. This exercise supports the National Cybersecurity Strategy implemented by ANSSI-CI, established in 2024.
Why it mattersThe simulation tests the nation's ability to protect its digital infrastructure, affecting energy, finance, and ICT sectors.