On 31^st July 2024, KEPSA and the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner [ODPC] officially launched the data protection training schedule. The KEPSA delegation was led by Mr. Cosmas Mutava, Vice Chair of the KEPSA Security Sector Board and Mr. Collins Ojiambo, Chair of the Data Protection Committee, along with KEPSA Public-Private Dialogue Officers; Mr. Bryan Ndichu and Ms. Ndege Grace. The ODPC was represented by the Data Commissioner, Ms. Immaculate Kassait, and Secretary of ICT, Security, and Audit Control, Mr. Emmanuel Kata from the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology.

In his remarks, Mr. Ojiambo thanked the ODPC for ensuring that organizations remain compliant by creating awareness and providing training opportunities for the Private Sector in Kenya. He also noted that the digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and an increased responsibility to protect personal data comes with it. Adequate data protection is not merely a regulatory obligation but a critical component of sustainable business practices. He noted that this training is designed to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of data privacy and implement robust data protection measures within our organizations.

The Data Commissioner, Ms. Kassait while acknowledging KEPSA as an essential body that brings together all stakeholders, appreciated the long-standing partnership between the ODPC and the Private Sector. In her remarks, she highlighted the significant accomplishments made by the ODPC in the implementation of data protection provisions including the development of sector-specific guidance notes, registration of 6215 data controllers and processors, lodging of 5859 complaints with issued 137 determinations, 72 enforcement notices, and 9 penalty notices. She added that they have sensitized over 1000 government and private agencies and that they continue to receive such requests daily. Ms. Kassait concluded by noting that safeguarding data is essential for the country to avoid being vulnerable to threats.

Mr. Emmanuel Kata, in his remarks, appreciated the ODPC’s efforts in creating awareness of data protection and promotion of stakeholder collaboration. He emphasized the need for the development of an Industry-relevant curriculum that will meet industry standards and ensure global compliance.

The three-month training program was officially launched and is scheduled to run from August 12, 2024, to October 21, 2024.