By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
The Economic Community of
Central African States (ECCAS) has validated its Regional Data Governance
Framework, marking a step towards secure cross-border data flows and stronger
digital integration in Central Africa.
The framework was validated
during a workshop organised by the United Nations Economic Commission for
Africa (ECA), in collaboration with ECCAS, in Brazzaville on 19–20 October
2026.
The workshop brought
together 30 representatives from Member States, technical partners and
development partners to advance regional cooperation on data governance.
The framework seeks to
harmonise data governance approaches, strengthen interoperability, protect
personal data and support digital entrepreneurship across the region.
A 36-month roadmap will
guide its implementation, covering the establishment of institutional and
regulatory foundations, the operationalisation of regional mechanisms and the
consolidation of progress.
The next priority is to
translate the shared framework into practical benefits through secure data
exchanges, improved digital public services and greater regional cooperation.
The initiative is expected
to contribute to a more integrated digital environment in Central Africa by
supporting coordinated approaches to data governance and facilitating secure
cross-border data flows among ECCAS Member States.
