By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Seventeen officers of
Benin’s Autorité de Protection des Données Personnelles (APDP) have been sworn
into office before the Court of First Instance of Cotonou, reaffirming their
commitment to protecting personal data in the exercise of their duties.
The swearing-in ceremony
took place on September 14, 2026, in accordance with Article 468, paragraph 2,
of Benin’s Digital Code and following instructions from the President of the
APDP.
The 17 officers comprised
four executives, eight trainees and five vehicle drivers, all of whom are now
formally bound by the responsibilities associated with their roles at the data
protection authority.
The ceremony highlighted the
responsibility of every APDP employee in handling personal information. Under
the Digital Code’s definition of data processing, personnel working for the
authority may be required to process personal data in the course of their
duties, regardless of their specific positions.
In his closing remarks, the
Deputy Public Prosecutor stressed the importance of the swearing-in ceremony
and the commitment that comes with taking the oath.
The presiding officer also
emphasised the personal nature of the oath and the consequences that may arise
from failing to comply with its obligations. She urged the newly sworn officers
to continue their training and regularly strengthen their knowledge to
effectively carry out the mission of protecting personal data.
