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Digital Literacy and the Challenge for NIST Compliance in Developing Economies

  • 2026
  • OriginalPaper
  • Chapter
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Abstract

This chapter delves into the critical role of digital literacy in achieving NIST compliance within developing economies, highlighting the significant disparity between these regions and their developed counterparts. It explores the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting global cybersecurity frameworks, with a particular focus on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF). The text presents a four-tier digital literacy competency model that integrates with the NIST CSF 2.0, emphasizing the importance of foundational digital skills for effective cybersecurity. Through case studies from Kenya, India, and South Africa, the chapter examines the unique barriers to NIST implementation, including digital literacy limitations, resource constraints, and cultural barriers. It concludes with practical recommendations for enhancing cybersecurity resilience, such as establishing clear executive leadership, developing national strategies, and fostering public-private partnerships. The chapter also introduces the SACyberSME Framework, a localized solution tailored to the needs of SMEs in South Africa, demonstrating how complex technical standards can be made actionable in resource-constrained environments.

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Title
Digital Literacy and the Challenge for NIST Compliance in Developing Economies
Authors
Premankit Sannd
David M. Cook
Menaka L. Godakanda
Efrancia Mobegi
Derani Dissanayake
Copyright Year
2026
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-13075-4_8
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