Ethiopian Communications Authority holds workshop on Personal Data Protection implementation

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

The Ethiopian Communications Authority has organized a Personal Data Protection Awareness Creation Workshop for public institutions as part of efforts to strengthen awareness and support the implementation of Ethiopia’s Personal Data Protection Proclamation No. 1321/2024.

The workshop brought together government officials, legal experts, cybersecurity professionals, and digital stakeholders to discuss the responsibilities and regulatory requirements associated with the country’s emerging personal data protection framework.

Opening the event, Director General Engineer Balcha Reba stressed the importance of protecting personal data, describing it as essential to safeguarding privacy rights, strengthening public trust, and supporting Ethiopia’s digital transformation agenda.

Deputy Director General Mr. Million Hailemichael delivered a presentation outlining the foundational principles of the proclamation, while Dr. Molalign Asmare, Senior Legal Advisor for Personal Data Protection at the Ethiopian Communications Authority, addressed the obligations of public institutions in ensuring compliance with the law.

A panel discussion moderated by Ms. Deborah Haddis, Senior Stakeholders Engagement Advisor for Personal Data Protection at the Authority, examined broader issues surrounding implementation, cybersecurity, and institutional preparedness.

Panelists included Ms. Bethelhem Mengistu, Senior Cyber Security Analyst at Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Fekreselassie Getachew, Senior Advisor to the Director General at the Information Network Security Administration, and Mr. Samuel Alemu, Legal and Policy Director at the National ID Program.

Discussions during the workshop emphasized the need for stronger compliance systems, enhanced cybersecurity safeguards, and increased collaboration among stakeholders to support the development of a secure and trusted digital ecosystem in Ethiopia.