The Office of Data Protection Commission (ODPC) held a breakfast meeting Monday with regulators, member bodies and associations called for partnerships in advancing data protection compliance in Kenya.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, each essential to achieving the shared goal of safeguarding citizens’ privacy in an increasingly digital world.
Emmaculate Kasait’s the ODPC boss said there’s the evolving landscape of data in Kenya, where the digital revolution has propelled economic growth, innovation, and service delivery.
The rise of data breaches, identity theft, and unauthorized data sharing poses significant risks.
She said “data is the new currency,” adding that the need to protect personal data not only as a regulatory requirement but as a moral imperative.
The Data Protection Act of 2019 and the establishment of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner marked significant milestones in Kenya’s commitment to data privacy.
These developments provide a robust regulatory framework to enforce data protection standards across various sectors.
Kasait also stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling data protection challenges.
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“No single entity can tackle these issues alone. The role of partnerships is crucial in building a culture of responsibility and compliance. Regulators, membership bodies, and associations are urged to ensure that entities they oversee understand and meet their legal obligations under the Data Protection Act.”
According to Kasait, the first step toward compliance is registration with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.
This process ensures transparency, accountability, and the ability to track and assess entities processing personal data. Kasait emphasized that registration is more than a formality; it is a legal obligation crucial for protecting individual data rights.
She concluded with a call to action for continued collaboration. Kasait urged all stakeholders to work closely with the Data Protection Office to ensure comprehensive compliance and foster a culture of accountability.
“Together, we can create an environment where data is used to empower and protect, rather than exploit and harm,” she said.
