Kenya reaffirms commitment to data privacy at Data Privacy Conference 2026 in Mombasa
Date: 2026-01-28
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening data protection and privacy as a cornerstone of its digital transformation agenda, as the country marked Data Privacy Day 2026 alongside the official closing of the Data Privacy Conference 2026 (DPC-2026) in Mombasa County.
Speaking
at the event, the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the
Digital Economy, Hon. William Kabogo Gitau, E.G.H., underscored the central
role of data privacy in building trust, enabling innovation and supporting a
progressive digital future in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
The
three-day conference, held under the theme “Trust the Data; Drive the Future,”
brought together key stakeholders shaping Africa’s digital and data governance
landscape. The forum provided a platform for in-depth deliberations on
policies, regulatory frameworks and safeguards required to support a reliable
and trusted digital ecosystem. The event also featured the commemoration of
Data Privacy Day 2026 and the launch of the Data Without Borders
report.
Hon.
Kabogo emphasized the government’s resolve to strengthen data protection laws
and regulatory frameworks to enhance cross-border data flows while ensuring the
security and integrity of personal and institutional data. He noted that
reliable data protection systems are essential for inclusive digital
innovation, accelerated economic growth and boosting investor confidence.
The
Cabinet Secretary further called for closer collaboration among government,
regulators, the private sector, civil society and development partners,
stressing that a multi-stakeholder approach is critical to building a
trustworthy and inclusive data ecosystem for Kenya and the wider region.
The
conference was attended by senior government officials and industry leaders,
including Principal Secretary for ICT and Digital Economy Eng. John Kipchumba
Tanui, CBS; Principal Secretary for Devolution Michael Lenasalon; Data
Protection Commissioner Immaculate Kassait, SC, MBS; Communications Authority
of Kenya Director General David Mugonyi; and the County Secretary and Head of
Public Service in the County Government of Mombasa, Jeizan Faruk, alongside
development partners, civil society representatives and stakeholders from the
public and private sectors.
