Govt Meets Journalists As Kenya Prepares To Host Data Protection Conference

The Office of The Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has urged the media to foster the dissemination of information on the opportunities presented by data in contributing to development as Kenya prepares to host the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and conference for the very first time.

Principal Secretary at the State Department for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the Digital Economy John Tanui spoke during a media briefing breakfast ahead of the NADPA AGM and conference scheduled to take place from May 7-9, 2024 in Nairobi at the Windsor Hotel and Golf Club

The PS emphasised that hosting the meeting in Kenya serves as a pivotal platform for knowledge exchange and sharing of experiences among African data protection authorities.

“It is barely a week since we hosted the Connected Summit and we are glad to host another global conference. The 9th AGM in Kenya presents a unique opportunity to showcase Kenya's unwavering dedication to data protection and its position as a Silicon Savannah,” he said.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait speaking to journalists on April 29, 2024. /HANDOUT

He revealed that the two-day conference which will bring together players in the tech and data protection industry presents an opportunity to fortify the implementation of robust data protection frameworks, setting the stage for a more secure and responsible digital landscape across the continent.

Tanui stated, “Participants can look forward to delving into the nuances of data protection trends across various African countries, gaining insights into best practices, and fostering partnerships to advance data protection initiatives on the continent.”

He called for the participation of members of the Fourth Estate during the conference which provides an avenue to highlight best practices, success stories, and challenges within the data protection landscape, offering a platform for experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share insights and experiences. 

“Your active participation and contributions to these discussions will enrich the exchange of ideas and drive meaningful progress in the realm of data protection,“ he expressed.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait on her part underscored the media’s critical role in advancing public understanding of data protection issues, ultimately fostering a culture of responsible data management and privacy inviting.

“We extend a cordial invitation for you to attend the NADPA Conference encouraging your active participation, especially during the plenary sessions. Your ability to effectively disseminate information and educate the public on data protection issues makes their participation essential in advancing the cause of data privacy,” she said.

While highlighting the key milestones made by the Office, Kassait noted that the ODPC has issued registration certificates to 5,195 entities and received a total of 5,315 complaints since the enactment of the Act.

Out of the total complaints received, the Office has issued 106 determinations, 60 enforcement notices and nine penalty notices to ensure that data controllers and processors comply with data protection regulations.

Established in Ouagadougou in September 2016, NADPA serves as a unifying platform for African privacy and data protection authorities from different regions. 

The organization aims to facilitate exchanges and cooperation among its members while amplifying Africa's voice in global data protection discussions.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait speaking to journalists on April 29, 2024. /OFFICE OF THE DATA PROTECTION COMMISSIONER