security to monitor and defend national networks and the inability to develop the necessary cybersecurity legal frameworks to fight cybercrime as well as lack of financial resources are the main factors that contribute to making African countries vulnerable to incidences of cyber terrorism and cyber espionage. 19. While many countries have proposed legislations, the level of deployment of security systems in both the private and the public sector is low. To promote Cyber Security culture and achieve effective measures and enhance confidence and security in the use of Telecommunication Networks /ICTs, the AU Member States need to accelerate the ratification and transposition of the AU Convention’s provision into their National Cyber-legislations. 20. At continental level there is a need to achieve high degree of harmonized policies, legislations and Regulatory procedures to prevent and fight against illicit use of Internet and ICTs. 21. At National Level, Member states may consider the following actions: i. Develop National cyber-security strategies, in line with international standards and practices taking into account the AU convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection; ii. Support the creation of national governance for Cyber-security and defining roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders; iii. Develop Legal and Regulatory frameworks and specific provisions related to cyber legislations; iv. Enhance technical capabilities to monitor and defend national networks; v. Develop National Computer Emergency/Incident Response Teams (CERTs / CIRTs). vi. Encourage efficient sharing of information and digital evidence on bilateral or multilateral basis; Protect relevant Institutions and the integrity of critical National Infrastructures against the threats and attacks capable of endangering their survival and efficacy; vii. viii. Provide long term capacity building and technical assistance to strengthen the national authorities to deal with cybersecurity issues; ix. Member States that do not have agreements on mutual assistance in Cybercrime to undertake signing agreements on mutual Legal assistance; x. Designate a focal point to facilitate regional and international cooperation. 3.3 Fighting all kinds of cybercrime at continental level: 22. Cyber threats are evolving and increasing at a fast pace, for preventing and fighting cybercrime, African countries need to urgently scale up efforts to Page 4 of 10