Central Bank of Lesotho Completes EU-Facilitated Cyber Incidents Response Training

HE Paola Amadei, the European Union Ambassador to Lesotho, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for the nation's financial system during her closing remarks.

The Central Bank of Lesotho has successfully concluded a four-day Cyber Incidents Response Training, facilitated by cybersecurity experts from the European Union's (EU) CyberNet. This training, held in partnership with the Government of Lesotho, is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing the Central Bank’s cybersecurity capabilities and reinforcing national financial stability.

Organized in collaboration with the Central Bank of Lesotho's management, the training represents a key milestone in improving the nation's cybersecurity infrastructure. EU CyberNet, an EU-funded program implemented by the Estonian Information System Authority, played a pivotal role in delivering the training. Its mission is to strengthen the global delivery of the EU’s external cyber capacity-building projects and provide technical support to partner countries, including Lesotho.

HE Paola Amadei, the European Union Ambassador to Lesotho, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for the nation's financial system during her closing remarks. "Strong cybersecurity measures are essential for safeguarding sensitive financial data, maintaining essential services, and ensuring public trust in the financial system," she noted. "This training is crucial not just for protecting institutions but for securing the financial well-being of every citizen."

The training is part of the EU’s broader support program for the Central Bank of Lesotho, which also includes contributions from strategic partners like the World Bank. Since its launch in May 2024, the program has invested LSL 6 million (EUR 300,000) in enhancing the bank’s capabilities in areas such as the Financial Sector Development Strategy (FSDS), regulatory reforms, Electronic Payment Acceptance (EPA), and strengthening the Credit Reporting System (CRS).

During the four-day session, participants engaged in practical exercises covering security standards, risk management, IT security best practices, threat detection, and security awareness. The training underscored the collective responsibility of ensuring cybersecurity, highlighting its importance for national security and the protection of financial systems.

The event marks a significant step forward in Lesotho’s efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity and safeguard its financial sector against evolving threats.