The Network of African
Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) recently convened in Nairobi, bringing
together data protection commissioners from across Africa to address the
complexities of global data privacy. Hosted by the Office of the Data
Protection Commissioner, the conference aimed to foster collaboration and
harmonize regulations to ensure seamless and secure cross-border data flows.
During the conference,
data authorities from over 18 countries came together to share best practices,
address challenges, and explore opportunities in cross-border data governance.
The event emphasized the importance of transparency, unity, and innovation in
navigating the intricate global data privacy landscape.
Keynote speaker Stanley
Kamanguya, CEO of Kenya's ICT Authority, stressed the need for expanded digital
infrastructure to empower citizens and drive economic growth. "As we build digital infrastructure for
Society 5.0, it's crucial that we prioritize cybersecurity and digital trust by
design, ensuring scalability, sustainability, and inclusivity," he
said.
The conference featured
distinguished guests, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of
Information from Gambia, Yankuba Saidy; Amb. Prof. Julius Kibet Bitok, who
spoke on digital identity for enhanced services; Tchimaden Samady, Chairperson
of NADPA RAPDP; and data protection commissioners from various countries,
including Kenya's Data Commissioner, Immaculate Kassait.
The conference marked an
important step towards harmonizing data protection regulations across Africa,
promoting transparency, and enhancing cross-border data flows.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
