Editor's Review

The conference will be held at the Windsor Hotel and Golf Club from May 7, 2024, to May 10, 2024.

Kenya through the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner is set to host the Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and conference at the Windsor Hotel and Golf Club from May 7, 2024, to May 10, 2024.

Speaking at a media breakfast on Monday, April 29 at the Tamarind Hotel in Nairobi, Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait noted that the conference will improve data flows across the African continent and strengthen best practices in data protection.

The Commissioner underlined the critical role of the media in promoting public understanding of data protection issues and ultimately fostering a culture of responsible data management and privacy.

“We extend a cordial invitation for you to attend the NADPA Conference encouraging your active participation especially during the plenary sessions. Your ability to effectively disseminate information and educate the public on data protection issues makes their participation essential in advancing the cause of data privacy,” said Kassait.

State Department for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui whose speech was delivered by Emmanuel Kata Kimeu emphasised that hosting the meeting in Kenya serves as an important platform for knowledge sharing and experience exchange among African data protection authorities.

“It is barely a week since we hosted the Connected Summit and we are glad to host another global conference, The 9th AGM in Kenya presents a unique opportunity to showcase Kenya's unwavering dedication to data protection and its position as a Silicon Savannah,” he said.

The ICT PS mentioned that the two-day conference, which will bring together stakeholders in the technology and data protection industries, provides an opportunity to strengthen the implementation of robust data protection frameworks and set the stage for a safer and more responsible digital landscape across the continent.

“Participants can look forward to delving into the nuances of data protection trends across various African countries, gaining insights into best practices, and fostering partnerships to advance data protection initiatives on the continent,” he added.

Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait addressing journalists on April 29. 

The theme of the 2024 NADPA Conference is "Promoting regional data governance for digital transformation".

Over 700 delegates from 25 countries across Africa are expected to attend the event, which will feature at least 40 speakers, including President William Ruto, who will be the chief guest.

The two-day event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, side discussions and roundtable discussions.

Some of the topics to be discussed at the conference include: navigating the global privacy landscape and promoting data flows, building a safe and trusted digital space for children, sharing best practices and case studies of fintech companies using PETs to enhance privacy and security, and understanding the challenges facing privacy regulators. 

Others include challenges, risks, and opportunities, the future of digital sovereignty and data governance in Africa, data protection and security in the public cloud, and artificial intelligence digital public goods for inclusive development.

Established in Ouagadougou in September 2016, NADPA serves as a unifying platform for African privacy and data protection authorities from different regions.

The organization aims to facilitate exchange and cooperation among its members while amplifying Africa's voice in global data protection discussions.