CS Owalo Urges Digital Sovereignty And Data Governance In Africa

Eliud Owalo, the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Information, Communications and Digital Economy has called for digital sovereignty and data governance in Africa as he officially opened the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RAPDP) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and two-day Conference at Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club.

The event, which brings together data protection authorities across Africa and data protection stakeholders, is aimed at formulating strategies to promote Regional Data Governance for Digital Transformation.

In his remarks, the CS acknowledged the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African countries in asserting control over their digital future, while navigating the influences of global competing interests and ensuring that partnerships contribute to sustainable growth and job creation.

“I encourage you to explore the current state of digital sovereignty and data governance in Africa and discuss strategies for shaping a prosperous and self-determined digital landscape,” he said.

The CS further noted the significance of the conference in alignment with the African Union Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection (Malabo Convention) which seeks to promote e-commerce by securing the cyber space through combatting cybercrime, enhancing personal data protection, and promoting the African digital economy.