Data
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has reiterated its commitment to enhance compliance with data protection laws in Kenya through collaboration with stakeholders to promote responsible data use.
Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait noted during a meeting with Regulators, Membership Bodies and Associations that teamwork is vital to address data protection issues like breaches and identity theft.
Through such partnerships, Kassait said the outfits will play an instrumental role in ensuring that the entities adhere to the law and that data handlers understand their legal obligations and take the necessary steps to meet them. “No single entity can tackle the challenges of data protection alone. Whether we represent the government, the private sector, or civil society, we each have a role in this ecosystem,” stated Kassait.
“That is why partnerships like the ones we celebrate today are essential. By ensuring compliance with data protection laws, we are upholding the dignity and privacy of every Kenyan,” stated the Data Commissioner,” she added. The Data Commissioner further raised concern that data breaches, identity theft, unauthorized sharing of personal data, and intrusive surveillance are becoming more prevalent in the digital era.
“This is why the protection of personal data is not only a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative. By ensuring robust data protection, we safeguard not just individual privacy, but also foster trust in our systems and institutions.” She urged the outfits to educate individuals, businesses and entities they accredit or register on the importance of data privacy and empower them to adopt secure and ethical data practices.
“Data protection is a cross-cutting issue that affects every sector of the economy. It requires a coordinated, collaborative approach, with each of us playing our part in ensuring that data is handled responsibly and securely. This compliance must begin with a push for registration,” said Kassait.
Deputy Data Commissioner Rose Mosero encouraged businesses to register with the ODPC since it is a legal requirement and will ensure there is transparency and accountability in handling personal data. Mosero added that the registration will allow the ODPC to identify and track entities processing personal data, assess their compliance with the law, and intervene when necessary to protect individuals’ data rights.