Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula says efficient, powerful and cost-effective cyber defence and solutions should be implemented to protect the country’s critical information infrastructure.
“We invite all cyber war specialists to register and be a part of the conversation [to] craft a solution,” the Minister said.
Addressing the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Mapisa-Nqakula said South Africa is paying attention to cybercrime at the highest level.
“We have taken a decision to collaborate with other countries to deal with the challenge. We need to play our part in combating this problem and it is critical that defence should remain mandate-driven in all its actions,” the Minister said.
Mapisa-Nqakula said at this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence show, being held in partnership with the University of Stellenbosch and other industry players, key issues on cyber security will be discussed.
“Natural and man-made disasters remain a reality that could have catastrophic consequences for our country and our neighbours,” the Minister said.
More than 300 exhibitors representing 37 countries are expected to take part in this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence show. The organisers of the show have invited 175 official delegations from 47 different countries, 90 of which are expected to attend.
Ministers, deputy ministers and chiefs of defence from various countries have been invited to attend this year’s Africa Aerospace and Defence show.
The AAD is Africa’s only aerospace and defence expo that combines both trade exhibition and an air show.
Held biennially in the City of Tshwane, the AAD Expo is one of South Africa’s largest contributors to the country’s GDP in show years, and is regarded as a national asset.
The AAD show remains Africa's premier aviation event showcasing leading-edge commercial and general aviation related technologies, products and related services offered by both local as well as international defence industry players.
Thousands of aviation and defence enthusiasts are expected to converge at the Airforce Base Waterkloof for the AAD from 19 – 23 September.
Among other things, the show programme will include aerial displays by the Silver Falcons, Gripens and Hawk fighter aircraft. – SAnews.gov.za
