A national campaign aimed at raising awareness on data protection among Kenyans has officially begun, spearheaded by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC). The initiative seeks to educate both individuals and organizations on the importance of adhering to the Data Protection Act and protecting personal information in an increasingly digital society.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement meeting, Data Commissioner Emmanuel Kasait underscored the urgency of the campaign, citing a growing number of cases involving the misuse of personal data. He called on all entities and professionals who collect, process, or store personal information to comply with the legal requirements of data protection.
“Institutions and individuals handling personal data must understand that they are legally obligated to safeguard that information. The misuse of data for personal or commercial gain is not only unethical but also a direct violation of the Data Protection Act,” said Kasait.
The Commissioner warned that violators will face legal action, adding that his office will not hesitate to enforce the law where breaches occur.
As part of the enforcement strategy, the ODPC will roll out data inspections across key sectors, including education, hospitality, and property management. These sectors are viewed as particularly sensitive due to the volume and nature of personal data they handle. The inspections aim to assess whether adequate measures are in place to secure data and ensure the rights of data subjects are protected.
Kasait also emphasized the importance of creating a data protection culture grounded in accountability, transparency, and responsibility. “We want to build public trust in how organizations manage personal data,” he said. “This begins with awareness, but it must be backed by strict compliance and ethical behavior.”
The campaign is expected to feature public education forums, stakeholder workshops, and digital outreach programs to help citizens understand their rights and how to report violations.
The ODPC’s latest move is a step toward making Kenya a model of responsible data governance in Africa, ensuring that privacy and data security are not just legal requirements but societal norms.
