Global Cyber Games Set to Transform Africa's Cybersecurity Landscape
The Council of Europe is set to host the prestigious Cyber Games, also known as Ciberjuegos, in Marrakech, Morocco, from May 19 to 21, 2026. This event underscores the crucial role of intercontinental cooperation in combating cybercrime, uniting a diverse group of around 160 law enforcement and cybersecurity specialists from nearly 50 countries. The collaboration involves key partners including INTERPOL, Morocco's General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), and the General Directorate for Information Systems Security (DGSSI). This marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time the Cyber Games will take place on the African continent, highlighting the commitment of African nations to the global fight against cybercrime and the increasing importance of international collaboration in this critical area.
The 2026 edition of the Cyber Games represents the second installment of an expanding series of competitions designed to enhance the skills of professionals in responding to more complex and sophisticated forms of cybercrime. Following the success of the inaugural event held in Malaysia in 2025, this competition is set to attract police investigators, digital forensics experts, and cybersecurity professionals. Participants will engage in practical challenges focused on investigating intricate cyberattacks and ransomware incidents, as well as tackling criminal networks involved in cryptocurrency laundering. The upcoming event will feature the highest-performing candidates from an initial pool of nearly 400 online pre-selection participants, reflecting growing global interest in the competition and its significance across Africa, America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Such initiatives are pivotal in strengthening cross-border cooperation against criminal networks, showcasing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the evolving landscape of cyber threats. As the Council of Europe continues its work in preventing crime through various programs, including the Cybercrime Programme Office (C-PROC) and ongoing capacity-building projects, the significance of the Budapest Convention remains paramount in guiding international efforts against cybercrime.
As reported by coe.int.
