ODPC leverages on partnerships to drive compliance on data protection

In its bid to drive compliance on data protection and build a culture of responsibility around data usage, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner held a meeting with representatives from regulators, membership bodies and associations under a strategic partnership.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait , MBS said through such partnerships, these outfits will play an instrumental role in ensuring that the entities  adhere to the law and ensuring the data handlers not only understand their legal obligations but also take the necessary steps to meet them.

“No single entity can tackle the challenges of data protection alone. Whether we represent the government, the private sector, or civil society, we each have a role to play in this ecosystem. That is why partnerships like the ones we are celebrating today are essential. By ensuring compliance with data protection laws, we are upholding the dignity and privacy of every Kenyan.

She further raised concern that data breaches, identity theft, unauthorized sharing of personal data, and intrusive surveillance are becoming more prevalent in the digital era. “This is why the protection of personal data is not only a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative.”

She urged the outfits to educate individuals, businesses and entities they accredit or register on the importance of data privacy and empower them to adopt secure and ethical data practices. 

Data protection is a cross-cutting issue that affects every sector of the economy. It requires a coordinated, collaborative approach, with each of us playing our part in ensuring that data is handled responsibly and securely. This compliance must begin with a push for registration.

In her remarks, Deputy Data Commissioner Rose Mosero emphasized that the first step towards compliance is registration with the Office noting that :It is not merely a formality but a legal obligation that ensures transparency and accountability. It allows us to identify and track entities processing personal data, assess their compliance with the law, and intervene when necessary to protect individuals' data rights."

“After registration DC DPs will be required to gradually build their data compliance maturity with continuous engagements with both the Office and accredited partners,” she pointed out.

Present during the event were Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo Omwoyo, MBS, Kenya Medical practitioners board CEO