What You Need to Know
The Lesotho government is taking significant steps to combat rising cyber threats by establishing a Government Security Operations Centre (GovSOC). This initiative, revealed during a recent workshop, aims to strengthen government systems against cyberattacks through early detection and prevention measures. Various ministries and security institutions are collaborating to define the centre’s roles,
Africa-Press – Lesotho. Government officers from various ministries are working towards establishing a Government Security Operations Centre (GovSOC).
This was revealed on Friday during a three-day workshop held at Lancers Inn, aiming at strengthening and protecting government systems against rising cyber threats.
In an interview with the agency Mr. Bulara Lebaka, an Infrastructure Support Officer from the Ministry of Information, Communication, Science, Technology and Innovation, said the workshop focused on developing a guiding document that will direct the creation and operation of the proposed centre.
Mr. Lebaka explained that the initiative, led by the Public Sector Foundation for Service Delivery, seeks to address cyber threats such as hacking incidents that can affect government institutions.
He noted that the centre will focus on early detection and prevention of cyberattacks, while also monitoring online activities to safeguard government information.
Mr. Lebaka added that several ministries and security institutions, including the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS), Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Information, Communication, Science, Technology and Innovation, NRD Cyber Security and others, are working together to define the structure, roles and responsibilities of the centre.
Meanwhile, Mr. Tumane Mahloane, Cyber Security Manager from Lesotho Communinications Authority highlighted that the planned Security Operations Centre will provide a central system to monitor activities across all government ministries, making it easier to detect and respond to cyber threats.
He said the centre will integrate departments under one system, supported by the necessary infrastructure, tools and skilled personnel.
He emphasised that the centre will focus on identifying unusual or suspicious activities without interfering with confidential information.
“It will also help address risks from both external attackers and insiders who may misuse government data,” he stressed.
Mr. Mahloane further stated that centralising cybersecurity operations will improve efficiency by reducing the need for multiple systems across ministries.
“The government will be provide the required equipment and ensure that clear structures and reporting systems are in place,” he reiterated.
He expressed hope that the establishment of the centre will improve coordination among government institutions and strengthen the country’s ability to respond to cyber.
In recent years, the rise of cyber threats has prompted governments worldwide to enhance their cybersecurity measures. Lesotho, like many nations, faces challenges from hacking incidents that can jeopardize government operations and sensitive information. The establishment of a Security Operations Centre is a proactive response to these threats, aiming to centralize monitoring and improve coordination among various government entities. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding national interests and public safety.
