Dr Rukanda Urges Organisations to Put Robust Systems in Place to Protect Data from Theft and Manipulation

By Cimba Shepherd Nhamo

In an era where businesses are increasingly driven by technology, cybersecurity is no longer a luxury but a necessity, according to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity expert Dr Whisper Rukanda.

Speaking at the recently held Econet E-Innovate Expo, organised by Econet and held from the 8th to the 10th of December at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), Dr Rukanda underscored the growing value of data, describing it as “the oil of modern business.”

He stressed that protecting this valuable commodity from theft and misuse should be a priority for organisations of all sizes.

“Every organisation today runs on data,” he said. “If that data is stolen, manipulated or compromised, the business itself is at risk.”

Dr Rukanda explained that cyber security involves safeguarding soft assets — essentially the intellectual and information resources that power modern enterprises. He highlighted how cybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to infiltrate networks and steal sensitive commercial data.

To counter these threats, he recommended the use of sophisticated protective mechanisms, including commercial data protection tools such as antivirus software, encryption algorithms and advanced access control systems.

These defensive systems are vital for stopping external intruders from accessing critical company data and systems.

He also stressed the importance of vulnerability assessment and penetration testing as proactive measures to identify and fix weaknesses before they can be exploited.

In addition, Dr Rukanda highlighted the need to secure central computing areas—the nerve centres of any organisation’s digital operations.

Dr Rukanda, who is widely recognised as a global expert in artificial intelligence (AI), digital forensics and cybersecurity, is the Group CEO of MorniPac International and Chief Operating Officer of MorniPac Digital Forensics, leading a network of companies that specialise in advisory services, cybersecurity, digital forensics and assurance work across multiple continents.

With more than 30 years of experience, his work spans engagements with organisations throughout Africa, the USA, the UK and Asia, where he has provided strategic direction on cybersecurity audits, organisational health assessments, forensic investigations and digital strategy formulation.

He holds a doctorate in information systems and technology, multiple master’s degrees, and a range of professional certifications—including Certified Project Manager, Certified Forensic Examiner, Certified Ethical Hacker, and Certified Cyber Forensics Professional—underscoring his deep technical and managerial expertise.

Dr Rukanda also emphasised that cyber security is not a one-off investment. “Cyber security requires constant updates, vigilance, and refinement,” he said.

Regular system updates and strong user authentication mechanisms, he noted, are essential for controlling who gains access to sensitive digital resources.

His vision extends beyond organisational practices to national preparedness.

At recent industry events, Dr Rukanda has advocated for stronger regulatory frameworks for vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, calling on policymakers to establish standards that will help protect Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure.

He has also been an outspoken voice on data governance and digital sovereignty, urging that Africa take the lead in developing AI and related technologies that reflect its unique ethical and cultural values, rather than relying on datasets and systems developed elsewhere.

As businesses continue their digital transformation journeys, Dr Rukanda’s message is clear: safeguarding data and building robust cyber-resilient systems is critical not just for survival, but for long-term success and trust in the digital economy.