4. BROAD DIMENSIONS FOR NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY This section of the Strategy articulates Malawi’s Vision and Mission Statements for Cybersecurity as well as the core elements of Malawi’s approach to improving the cybersecurity posture. 4.1. Vision Malawi’s vision is: “A nation with a secure, trusted, resilient and safe cyberspace that promotes a knowledgebased society and socio-economic development” 4.2. Mission Malawi’s mission is: “To develop and deliver effective cybersecurity capacity, services and infrastructure that instills confidence in cyberspace” 4.3. Guiding Principles The National Cybersecurity Strategy is built on the following Guiding Principles: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. Risk-based approach: The Cybersecurity Strategy will ensure that a risk-based approach is adopted by the private sector, the Government, academia and civil society in assessing and responding to cyber-related threats or issues. Multi-stakeholder approach: The Cybersecurity Strategy will seek to enhance the effectiveness of all key stakeholders in improving the cybersecurity posture of Malawi by recognizing the various roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders and promoting national cooperation and coordination for cybersecurity-related activities amongst stakeholders. External Co-operation: The Strategy will also promote bilateral, regional and international cooperation, recognizing the borderless nature of cyberspace. Respect for the rule of law and human rights: The Cybersecurity Strategy is aligned with the laws in force in Malawi. It is also aimed at facilitating the promotion, protection and enjoyment of fundamental human rights and freedoms of Malawian citizens. Capacity development: The Cybersecurity Strategy will seek to enable the continuous development of the Malawi’s capacity to address fast changing cybersecurity issues and developments. Socio-economic development: The National Cybersecurity Strategy will ensure cyberspace is fully leveraged by Malawi to spur broader socio-economic development, facilitate sustainable socio-economic development across the entire nation. 10