U.S., UNODC backed workshop boosts West Africa’s response to child cybercrime

The United States, in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), has convened a regional workshop aimed at strengthening digital crime investigations and improving the response to cybercrime targeting children across West Africa.

The training brought together law enforcement officials from Senegal and neighbouring countries, reflecting a growing recognition that online crimes—particularly those involving children—require coordinated cross-border action, technical expertise, and sustained institutional collaboration.

Representing the U.S. side, Business Manager Jennifer Davis Paguada joined Senegalese police authorities to congratulate participants for successfully completing the programme. Her presence underscored Washington’s continued support for regional security cooperation and justice-sector capacity building.

The workshop focused on equipping investigators with practical tools to detect, investigate, and help prosecute digital offences involving child exploitation and other online threats. Officials say the exchange of professional experience and best practices is essential in a context where cybercrime networks increasingly operate beyond national borders.

Beyond policing, the initiative also reflects a wider governance and development agenda. Authorities and partners emphasized that stronger law enforcement cooperation, effective border protection, and the rule of law are essential not only for public safety but also for creating the stable environment needed for private sector-led economic growth.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, the workshop signals a broader regional shift toward prevention, preparedness, and collaborative justice—especially in areas where the safety of children and the resilience of digital spaces are at stake.

Po: U.S. Embassy in Senegal