On Thursday, 13 February 2025, the Council for Scientific, and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Clyrofor signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance innovation, foster skills development and support the commercialisation of cybersecurity technologies. The MoU was signed by Loyiso Boyce, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Clyrofor, and Executive Manager at the CSIR Defence and Security cluster, Sipho Mbhokota.

This strategic partnership is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening cybersecurity in South Africa by enhancing collaboration around the technological capabilities of both organisations. It also aims to strengthen expertise in cybersecurity, create new opportunities for innovation and contribute to economic growth by addressing socio-economic challenges such as unemployment through a formal skills training programme.

Key areas of collaboration include:

• Academy of excellence: Facilitating the exchange of students, interns, and staff for practical training in cybersecurity.
• Joint projects: Collaborating on initiatives such as hackathons to foster innovation.
• Technology commercialisation: Evaluating and commercialising cutting-edge, home-grown technologies through proof-of-concept projects.

In his opening remarks, Boyce expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasising the shared vision of both organisations to drive innovation and enhance skills development in South Africa. “By combining Clyrofor’s expertise with the advanced research capabilities of the CSIR, this partnership aims to make a lasting impact on the cybersecurity and technology sectors,” Boyce said.                                                                  

During the MoU signing, Mbhokota, highlighted how the partnership aligns with the CSIR’s core mission of advancing scientific and industrial research to address socioeconomic challenges in South Africa.

“This partnership with Clyrofor marks a significant step towards unlocking new opportunities for innovation. We are excited about the potential of this collaboration, not only in advancing cutting-edge technologies but also in enhancing skills development and strengthening South Africa's growing cybersecurity technological landscape,” said Mbhokota.

Dr Jabu Mtsweni, CSIR Information and Cyber Security Centre Manager, touched on the importance of independence and resilience in the sector. “Our goal is to develop home-grown tools that enhance national security and protect businesses and citizens. We also hope to expand our footprint across Africa through this collaboration,” Dr Mtsweni concluded.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing South Africa’s cybersecurity capabilities, fostering technological growth and building a resilient, independent future for the continent.
 

Image caption: Loyiso Boyce, Managing Director of Clyrofor (Left), and Sipho Mbhokota, Executive r Manager at the CSIR Defence and Security cluster (Right) at the MoU signing ceremony

-ENDS-

Issued by CSIR and Clyrofor

For enquiries contact:
Phetolo Phatsibi: CSIR Media Relations Practitioner  
Email: PPhatsibi@csir.co.za   
Mobile: 081 396 8871

Or

Vuyiswa Mshengu: Branding and Marketing Specialist
Email: Vuyiswa@clyrofor.co.za
Mobile: 068 659 6735

About the CSIR:

The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, is one of Africa’s leading organisations in scientific and technology research, development and implementation. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans.

This year, the CSIR celebrates 80 years of touching lives through innovation. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za

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About Clyrofor

Clyrofor is an agile cybersecurity company dedicated to helping businesses navigate the ever-evolving threat landscape with speed and precision. We prioritize a proactive approach to security, ensuring that our clients stay ahead of emerging risks while adapting to their dynamic business needs.

Through strategic partnerships with leading technology providers, Clyrofor serves as a one-stop solution for information security and information management. Our expertise enables businesses to operate securely from anywhere, at any time, protecting them from cyber threats, data breaches, and potential losses.

With a decade of experience in the cybersecurity industry, Clyrofor combines innovation, expertise, and a commitment to excellence—keeping businesses secure, resilient, and always connected.

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LinkedIn: Clyroforsa Instagram: Clyroforsa Facebook: Clyroforsa and X: Clyroforsa.