Government launches Data Protection Campaign
Jan 09, 2024
“Use the information professionally and ethically to protect the privacy of people. This is all about confidentiality. It's a fundamental right to protect people’s privacy. Why expose their data?" Minister Baryomunsi noted.
ICT minister Baryomunsi said government agencies like the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and other actors who have access to individual information and privacy must use it for intended purpose. Nancy N.
Jeff Andrew Lule
Journalist @New Vision
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The Ministry of Information Communication Technology and National Guidance has launched a Data Protection and Privacy 2024 campaign with a stern warning to the custodians/duty bearers against misusing people's personal data.
The Minister for ICT, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, said government agencies like the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and other actors who have access to individual information and privacy must use it for intended purpose.
“Use the information professionally and ethically to protect the privacy of people. This is all about confidentiality. It's a fundamental right to protect people’s privacy. Why expose their data?" he noted.
He made the remarks at the launch of the campaign campaign at the Uganda Media Center in Kampala on January 9, 2024.
(L-R) Stella Alibateese Director National Personal Data Protection, Chris Baryomunsi Minister of ICT, and Alexander Kibandama Board Chair NITA-U during a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre on January 9, 2024. (All Photos by Nancy Nanyonga)
The campaign will be held under the theme: "Stop, Think, Own Your Privacy".
He also warned the media to always use the information gathered responsibly, on what should be published and what is confidential.
The government in 2019 enacted the Data Protection and Privacy Act and later the Ministry of ICT and NG together with the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) developed and gazetted the Data Protection and Privacy Regulations.
Barymunsi said this was aimed at comprehensively and adequately providing for the safeguarding of privacy of personal data of Ugandans.
He noted that the campaign is part of the activities ahead of the commemoration of the Data Privacy Day scheduled to take place on January 31, 2024.
The head of the National Personal Data Protection Director, Stella Alibateese said as the Uganda embraces more digital connectivity and technological advancements, data breaches and information mouse are prevalent and as such protecting personal data has never been more critical.
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