The Minister of Information, Communications Technology, and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, launched the 2024 Data Privacy Campaign during a press conference at Uganda Media Centre in Kampala on Tuesday.

The one-month-long campaign under the theme “Stop, Think, Own Your Privacy” is aimed at raising awareness and empowering citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to take control of the privacy of their personal data.

The minister noted that as Uganda embraces more digital connectivity and technological advancements, data breaches and information misuse are prevalent and as such protecting personal data has never been more critical.

Baryomunsi said that during the campaign, the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) will conduct public sensitization engagements with educative webinars, Twitter/X Space, guest lectures at universities, TV & radio talk shows, and encourage Data Protection Officers to promote awareness within their institutions.

The PDPO was established in 2021 to oversee the implementation of and be responsible for the enforcement of the Data Protection and Privacy Act which was enacted in 2019. 

Key provisions of the Act include safeguarding individual privacy, ensuring the rights of those whose data is collected & regulating data collectors’ responsibilities and information use.

One of the functions of the PDPO is to formulate, implement, and oversee programs intended to raise public awareness about the Act and its attendant regulations that were formulated in 2021.

The minister said the campaign will climax with a hybrid conference on 31st January 2024 to commemorate International Data Privacy Day. This day marks the signing of Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty dealing with data protection and privacy, he said. 

“In Uganda, this day not only commemorates an international observance but also serves as a vital reminder of the country’s commitment to safeguarding the privacy of citizens’ data as enshrined in the Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019,” the minister said.  

“As we embrace technology, our appeal to all those handling people’s information is that there is a legal regime that guarantees and emphasizes the need to protect the data of individuals,” he added.