The Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) has launched in Tanzania on the 3rd of April 2024.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan inaugurated the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) in Tanzania on Wednesday the 3rd April 2024 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam. The launch of the commission signifies a crucial step towards addressing long-standing concerns regarding data privacy and marks an important milestone for the country’s economy by safeguarding citizens’ personal information.

The PDPC, under the leadership of Director General Mr. John Kasebele, has been entrusted with several key duties to ensure the effective implementation of data protection laws and the protection of individuals’ personal information. Among its responsibilities, the commission will enforce data protection laws, oversee the handling of personal data by organizations, investigate data breaches, and promote awareness of data protection rights and best practices.

During her speech at the inauguration ceremony, President Samia emphasized the significance of stringent control over the collection, storage, and utilization of personal data to alleviate fears surrounding unauthorized access and misuse. She urged companies collecting and processing personal information to comply with data protection laws to safeguard individuals’ privacy rights.

The establishment of the PDPC aims to protect the rights and interests of citizens nationally, fulfill the country’s obligations regionally and internationally, and keep pace with technological advancements in data collection and processing. The commission’s role includes ensuring compliance with data protection laws, addressing data breaches, and promoting transparency in data management practices.

President Samia also highlighted the need for harmonization of government ICT systems to enable a single identification number for all identification purposes by the end of the year. This initiative aims to streamline digital infrastructure and enhance data security across various sectors.

The Personal Data Protection Act, 2022 serves as the primary legislation governing the collection, processing, and protection of personal data in Tanzania. Enacted to regulate the handling of personal information and ensure the privacy and security of individuals’ data, the act sets out the rights and responsibilities of data controllers, data processors, and data subjects.

Rive & Co Intellectual Property and Data Protection has commented on this move and expressed readiness to assist businesses in complying with the Data Protection Act. For more information or assistance with data protection compliance, businesses can reach out to Sunday at sunday@rive.co.tz.

Overall, the launch of the Personal Data Protection Commission in Tanzania underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening data protection laws, fostering compliance with regulations, and safeguarding individuals’ privacy rights in the digital age.