At a time when cybersecurity threats loom large over the global and domestic digital space, CWG Ghana stands as concrete evidence of technological resilience and innovation. As a subsidiary of the Pan-African technology giant that has operated in Ghana for over 20 years, CWG Ghana has built a profound reputation as a crucial player in the nation’s digital transformation journey.
Recently certified as a Tier 1 cybersecurity vendor by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), and also landing the much coveted ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, CWG Ghana continues to expand its footprint beyond its traditional strongholds in banking and telecommunications into sectors like healthcare and manufacturing. With plans to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) within the next three years, the company is trumpeting its commitment to deepening its local impact.
In this exclusive interview, CWG Ghana’s Managing Director, Harriet YARTEY, discusses the company’s evolution in response to emerging cyber threats, its role in developing Ghana’s technology talent through initiatives like the CWG Academy, and its vision for the future with the B&FT’s Ebenezer Chike Adjei NJOKU.
Below, she shows how, as the digital ecosystem grows more complex, CWG Ghana’s approach to balancing innovation with security offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the nation’s technological ecosystem.
Overview of CWG and CWG Ghana
B&FT: CWG has been a part of the pan-African technology scene for over three decades, with a strong presence in multiple countries. Can you give us an overview of CWG’s operations and offerings?
CWG Ghana: Certainly. CWG Ghana is part of a larger pan-African company, with over 20 years in Ghana and more than 30 years in Nigeria. We also operate in Cameroon and Uganda, where we deliver technology solutions across sectors like banking, telecom, healthcare, and more. Our services include digital transformation, cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and extensive training programmes aimed at developing talent to meet market demands. Additionally, we collaborate with leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Finaco, CyberArk, and Clari5, which allows us to offer specialised solutions, particularly for financial institutions and enterprise clients.
Cybersecurity and compliance
B&FT: Given the rapid pace at which digital threats are evolving, how has the cybersecurity ecosystem in Ghana kept up over the past two decades?
CWG Ghana: The cybersecurity space has seen major advancements. One of the biggest changes has been the establishment of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), which has brought standardised regulatory frameworks and heightened awareness of cybersecurity. Every October, the CSA leads Cybersecurity Awareness Month, promoting education and public campaigns about security best practices. Global trends, such as phishing, hacking, and data breaches, have impacted Ghana as well. Today, people are more aware of issues like phishing emails and unauthorised system access, which has fueled a need for more comprehensive security solutions.
B&FT: Given the stringent regulatory demands, how does CWG Ghana ensure its compliance?
CWG Ghana: We are very committed to staying compliant and relevant. We hold ISO certifications, including our recently achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, which was a significant milestone for us. This certification covers our entire operation—from Sales and Finance to PMO/BA, Technical operations, Data Centers, and Disaster Recovery sites. What made this achievement particularly meaningful was that our environment was already well-prepared, which facilitated a relatively smooth but intense implementation process. Our many years of deployment and consulting experience in the industry certainly helped in this inaugural certification journey.
We are also finalising our Information Security Management System (ISMS) and have various policies in place, like ethics and anti-money laundering guidelines, to ensure we meet the standards expected by our clients. In Ghana, RFPs (Request for Proposals) often include stringent regulatory requirements, and we need to be up-to-date to remain competitive. Compliance is more than just a checkbox for us—it is essential for building trust and effectively competing in today’s market.
B&FT: In a prior conversation, you mentioned that CWG Ghana recently supported a financial institution facing phishing attacks and data breaches. Can you tell us more about your approach to this project?
CWG Ghana: Certainly. The institution was experiencing frequent phishing attacks that undermined customer trust and threatened regulatory compliance. Our ISO/IEC 27001:2022 framework guided our systematic approach to this challenge. Our first step was a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment to identify vulnerabilities—applying our certified risk assessment methodology. Given budget constraints, we designed a phased implementation, balancing capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX). This approach allowed the client to manage costs without compromising security.
Following our ISO 27001:2022 certification, our incident response capabilities have been significantly enhanced. We now have a well-defined Incident Response Plan that outlines clear steps for identifying, reporting, containing, investigating, and recovering from security incidents. We applied these proven protocols to help the client establish 24/7 incident monitoring and escalation procedures, classification of incidents based on severity, and root cause analysis processes. Our team also provided employee training, equipping staff to recognise phishing attempts. These actions restored customer trust, improved regulatory compliance, and normalised business operations.
B&FT: How does CWG Ghana address these trends and promote cybersecurity awareness?
CWG Ghana: Our company plays a direct role by participating in national cybersecurity programmes organised by the CSA. We also partner with licensed vendors and provide security awareness training. Additionally, we have strengthened our talent base to ensure our team is equipped to handle the cybersecurity demands of our customers. Our solutions cover key areas like fraud management, privilege access management, and identity access management, serving sectors such as banking, telecom, and healthcare, each of which has unique needs that we aim to address with tailored solutions.
B&FT: CWG Ghana was also recently recognised as a Tier 1 cybersecurity vendor by the CSA. What does this mean for your company?
CWG Ghana: This certification is significant; it signals our adherence to stringent security standards. The CSA sets rigorous requirements for vendors, and by meeting these, we have built credibility and trust with our customers. Our international and local partnerships and certifications actually supported our CSA Tier 1 application—having an internationally recognised information security management system demonstrated our commitment to global best practices alongside local regulatory compliance. This dual certification approach gives us both local validation and international credibility.
This certification also means that most organisations in Ghana are required to work with licensed cybersecurity vendors, which puts CWG Ghana in a favourable position. Customers in sectors like telecommunication and banking have specifically requested proof of our CSA certification before engaging with us, which has reinforced our reputation and expanded our reach. The combination of our CSA Tier 1 status and ISO 27001:2022 certification provides powerful evidence of our comprehensive security capabilities.
Expansion
B&FT: In addition to sectors like banking and telecom, does CWG Ghana have plans to expand its reach to other industries?
CWG Ghana: Yes, indeed. We are currently looking at the manufacturing and healthcare sectors. Manufacturing, for example, is increasingly data-driven, and many companies are realising the importance of data protection. Cybersecurity awareness among employees in these industries is crucial. By expanding our services, we aim to help these sectors safeguard their data and align with best practices.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
B&FT: Technology is advancing rapidly, especially with the emergence of AI and machine learning. How is CWG Ghana adapting to these changes?
CWG Ghana: We are committed to staying at the forefront of technology. We are actively investing in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to meet our clients’ evolving needs. For example, we recently worked with a bank that required an AI-enhanced solution for better data insights. Our approach includes not just investing in new solutions, but also training our human resources so they’re prepared to support our clients. Automation, especially, has become critical in minimising risks and enhancing cybersecurity, particularly for industries vulnerable to fraud.
Talent development – CWG Academy
B&FT: Speaking of talent development, CWG Ghana is known for its training programmes. Could you tell us more about that?
CWG Ghana: At CWG Ghana, we prioritise skills development through our CWG Academy, where people can gain IT skills at discounted rates. The Academy has trained over 200 graduates in areas like systems administration, storage management, and cybersecurity. We also have a partnership with the University of Ghana, awarding a laptop and offering a one-year internship to the best graduating Computer Science student. From 2025, we have expanded this initiative to other universities. These programmes are part of our commitment to developing Ghana’s technology talent.
B&FT: In-house, how does CWG Ghana encourage continuous development and innovation among its employees?
CWG Ghana: We are committed to employee growth and innovation. We support skill-building through various learning opportunities, including self-learning, sponsored training, and partner-led enablement sessions. Additionally, we have an “innovation hall” where young talents can experiment, share ideas, and incubate new concepts. Our approach empowers employees to drive solutions and fosters a culture of innovation.
This innovation culture aligns perfectly with our ISO 27001:2022 commitment to continuous improvement. The standard requires us to regularly review and enhance our information security management system, which naturally encourages our team to think creatively about security solutions and process improvements. Technology is a dynamic field, so this culture of continuous learning and innovation is crucial to staying competitive and relevant.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
B&FT: Can you elaborate on CWG Ghana’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts?
CWG Ghana: Our CSR initiatives are focused on education and skills development. In addition to our partnership with the University of Ghana, we are in discussions with an organisation called Engine to provide six months of free IT skills training for students. This partnership would empower participants with the technology skills needed to pursue careers or start their own businesses. We also make a conscious effort to provide equal opportunities in STEM, ensuring that women and young people are represented within our organisation.
Innovation, gender equity
B&FT: You have mentioned that CWG Ghana is “innovation-hungry.” Could you elaborate on how this mindset is integrated into the organisation?
CWG Ghana: Innovation is at the heart of our culture. We encourage every employee to contribute ideas, and we have incubation programmes to nurture these concepts. Employees are given the autonomy to explore and propose solutions, fostering a mindset that goes beyond the conventional. In our environment, team members are not just given answers—they are encouraged to ask questions and find solutions. This approach empowers our team and keeps us agile in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
B&FT: CWG Ghana’s commitment to gender equity is admirable. How does the company foster an inclusive environment?
CWG Ghana: Here, we ensure fair access and representation across the board. CWG Ghana supports both men and women in their career growth, with numerous women in management positions. Our workplace includes a diverse mix of generations, from millennials to Gen Z, creating a platform where everyone can contribute. Our goal is to create a space where people feel encouraged to express themselves and share their ideas, which we believe strengthens our organisation.
B&FT: Flowing from that, it appears your company has many women in leadership roles. How does this reflect the company’s approach to gender equity?
CWG Ghana: As suggested, we are deeply committed to gender equity. Personally, I have been in a leadership role at CWG Ghana for over a decade, and I am proud to see more women rising to management positions. Today, we have women heading departments like project management and procurement—roles that were traditionally male-dominated. This shift is evidence of CWG Ghana’s dedication to an inclusive environment where everyone has equal opportunities to excel. The board and management team strongly support diversity, and that makes a real difference.
Contribution to the economy
B&FT: How would you describe CWG Ghana’s contribution to the Ghanaian economy?
CWG Ghana: Over the years, we have contributed significantly to Ghana’s economy. CWG Ghana has directly created over 100 jobs and supports countless local businesses. Beyond employment, our investments in training and skills development help build a capable workforce, equipping people with skills that benefit the broader economy. Additionally, our initiatives like the aforementioned CWG Academy and University of Ghana partnership develop IT professionals, creating pathways to employment or entrepreneurship.
B&FT: What challenges and opportunities do you see in Ghana’s cybersecurity market?
CWG Ghana: Ghana’s technology landscape is evolving rapidly, creating both challenges and opportunities. On one hand, we are seeing increased cloud adoption, regulatory requirements, and cyber threats. But there is also a significant talent shortage, partly due to skilled professionals emigrating. This shortage is a real challenge for the industry. To address it, we have launched an academy programme to train fresh graduates in essential cybersecurity skills. We do not just develop their skills; we also help them connect with businesses that need these capabilities. It’s our way of both filling the talent gap and contributing to the local workforce sustainability.
B&FT: What cybersecurity trends do you anticipate shaping the industry in the coming years?
CWG Ghana: Digital transformation is a driving force that will continue to shape the industry. With increased digital services, there will be more vulnerabilities, and we will see cybersecurity threats evolve. We anticipate advancements in AI-based security and more sophisticated cyberattacks. Another trend is the hybrid work model, which became popular post-COVID. While it provides flexibility, it also introduces new security risks, as employees often work from outside secure environments.
Our ISO/IEC 27001:2022 risk management framework helps us stay ahead of these emerging threats. We’re already planning strategic security initiatives like Zero Trust Architecture implementation, which enhances security by verifying every access request regardless of origin. We’re also implementing security automation and orchestration tools to streamline incident response and reduce manual errors.
Data privacy and IoT (Internet of Things) security are also set to gain prominence as digital adoption grows. CWG is preparing for these trends by enhancing protocols that protect our clients’ environments, whether they work in the office or remotely.
B&FT: You mentioned CWG Ghana’s partnerships with OEMs earlier. How do these collaborations benefit your customers?
CWG Ghana: Partnerships and collaborations are crucial to our business strategy. By working with OEMs like Infosys, Clari5, and CyberArk, we are able to provide high-quality solutions tailored to meet specific industry needs. For instance, we offer fraud management solutions in partnership with Clari5 and identity access management with CyberArk. Collaborations like these allow us to deliver value to our customers while remaining competitive. We also partner with infrastructure providers like HP and Dell to offer reliable backup and storage solutions.
B&FT: How does CWG Ghana leverage partnerships and community engagement to strengthen its business?
CWG Ghana: Partnerships are vital to us, and we are very selective about whom we work with. Every partnership reflects our values, so we perform thorough assessments to ensure alignment. We are also dedicated to community engagement. Giving back is part of our ethos; it is our way of expressing gratitude to the communities that support our growth. This dual focus on strategic partnerships and community contributions not only builds our brand but also strengthens our position in the market.
ESG
B&FT: With environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles gaining traction across the business landscape, what is CWG Ghana doing to promote sustainability?
CWG Ghana: We are actively working to reduce our environmental impact, though our sustainability programme is still evolving. For example, we have implemented recycling programmes, particularly around paper, and are digitising our documents to reduce waste. We also maintain a small, efficient data centre to limit energy use. While we are in the process of obtaining sustainability certifications, we are committed to making responsible choices that minimise our environmental footprint. ESG is a significant area of focus, and we are keen to make continual improvements.
Next steps, future
B&FT: Open banking is becoming a topic of interest globally. Do you think Ghana will adopt this trend?
CWG Ghana: Open banking has potential in Ghana, although adoption may take time. COVID-19 showed us the value of digital flexibility, as banks had to adapt to remote access. While traditionally hesitant, financial institutions are increasingly recognising the benefits of digital services. This shift toward open banking might be gradual, but I believe we will see it take root eventually, as it aligns with the growing consumer demand for convenient digital options.
B&FT: What are CWG Ghana’s next steps for the future?
CWG Ghana: Our priority is to keep evolving. We plan to continue expanding into industries like manufacturing and healthcare and to remain committed to cybersecurity, which is a growing concern for businesses across all sectors. We will also focus on leveraging new technologies like AI and machine learning, keeping our talent equipped to meet client needs.
Beyond our ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, we are planning additional security initiatives over the next 1-3 years to further enhance our security posture. These include implementing Zero Trust Architecture, enhancing security automation and orchestration, expanding our security training and awareness programmes, and strengthening third-party risk management.
Our CSR initiatives will expand, with a special focus on closing the skills gap in technology. We look forward to deepening our impact and contributing to Ghana’s growth in the years to come. We see our role in elevating information security standards across Ghana’s business ecosystem as demonstrating that ISO certification is achievable for any organisation with the will—it’s not a preserve of large organisations alone.
B&FT: Finally, if you could share one message about CWG Ghana’s mission, what would it be?
CWG Ghana: Our mission is to provide peace of mind through reliable solutions. We invest heavily in technology, talent, and partnerships to bring the best to our clients. Every solution we offer is a reflection of our commitment to quality, compliance, and community. We are not just here to provide a service; we are here to build lasting trust with our clients and the communities we serve. We look forward to working closely with regulatory authorities and industry to jointly safeguard the cyberspace for our customers. Security is ultimately not a one-organisation task, but working together, we can give peace of mind to our customers and regulators.
The post Cybersecurity, social impact and everything between – CWG’s blueprint for digital excellence appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.
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