Sensitive information belonging to thousands of vulnerable children and families could be at risk unless non-governmental organisations significantly strengthen their cybersecurity systems, SOS Children’s Villages The Gambia has warned. Drawing from the organisation’s own experience, Kouamin recalled the devastating global cyberattack that struck SOS Children’s Villages in 2021, paralysing operations in 136 countries and territories. He noted that while many international NGOs have invested in cybersecurity, numerous local organisations continue to face significant vulnerabilities, making capacity building and information sharing essential. The ARONCY initiative seeks to establish minimum cybersecurity standards for NGOs, improve compliance with national data protection laws, strengthen donor confidence and create a collaborative network capable of responding effectively to emerging cyber threats. Organisers said the initiative is expected to strengthen cybersecurity resilience across The Gambia’s NGO sector, improve the protection of vulnerable communities and build greater public confidence in organisations entrusted with sensitive personal data.