Harnessing Emerging Technologies to Construct an Afrocentric Cybersecurity Threat Model

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the rising cybersecurity threats in Africa, where digital transformation particularly mobile money platforms has exposed vulnerabilities such as SIM-swap fraud, USSD attacks, and identity-driven intrusions. Reported losses, including approximately Kshs. 11 billion in Kenya in 2023 and USD 500 million in Nigeria in 2022, underscore the need for contextually relevant cybersecurity strategies. The study proposes an Afrocentric approach integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Cloud Computing to enhance threat detection, intelligence sharing, and adaptive defense mechanisms. Methodology: A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) guided by PRISMA principles was conducted, examining peer-reviewed studies, industry reports, and policy documents from 2020 to 2025 across IEEE Xplore, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink. The review focused on African cybersecurity challenges, applications of emerging technologies, and culturally relevant digital governance frameworks. Thematic synthesis identified gaps and informed the development of a conceptual Afrocentric cybersecurity model. Findings: Current Western-centric frameworks inadequately address Africa’s mobile-first digital ecosystem. The proposed Afrocentric model integrates AI-driven analysis of mobile transactions, Big Data analytics for real-time threat intelligence, and cloud infrastructure designed for localized data governance. The framework embeds collective intelligence sharing inspired by Ubuntu philosophy and emphasizes Managed Shared Responsibility to overcome technical literacy gaps in SMEs. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: African governments, industry, and policymakers should adopt Afrocentric cybersecurity strategies prioritizing mobile ecosystems, develop local AI and Big Data capacity, and establish secure cloud infrastructures. Future research should empirically test the model to strengthen digital resilience across African economies.