Eldoret to Host Annual Data Privacy Conference 2025: A Milestone for Digital Transformation
This year’s theme,Safeguarding Personal Data to Spur Digital Transformation and Economic Development, underscores the vital role of data privacy in fostering trust, innovation, and sustainable growth in the digital age.
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) is set to host the Annual Data Privacy Conference 2025 in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on Monday and Tuesday, January 27-28, 2025. This year’s theme,Safeguarding Personal Data to Spur Digital Transformation and Economic Development, underscores the vital role of data privacy in fostering trust, innovation, and sustainable growth in the digital age.
The two-day conference will bring together a diverse audience, including government officials, private sector representatives, civil society organizations, academia, and international development partners. The event coincides with Data Privacy Day, celebrated globally on January 28 to commemorate the signing of Convention 108, the world’s only international treaty on data protection, 41 years ago.
Building a Privacy-Conscious Society
Speaking ahead of the event, Immaculate Kassait, MBS, Data Commissioner of Kenya, emphasized the importance of protecting personal data in the digital era. As we embrace digital transformation, safeguarding personal data is not just a regulatory requirement but a foundation for building trust and ensuring economic prosperity,”she said.
The conference will feature panels on topics such as building a data privacy culture, overcoming compliance challenges, and leveraging technology to enhance data privacy and security. Experts will also explore strategies for strengthening collaboration among stakeholders in Kenya’s data protection ecosystem.
Prominent Speakers and Stakeholders
Notable speakers include Grace Githaiga from KICTANet, Houghton Irungu of Amnesty International Kenya, and David Omwoyo, MBS, CEO of the Media Council of Kenya. The panels will also feature industry leaders from organizations such as Safaricom, Amazon, KCB Group, and ISACA Kenya, as well as representatives from government and civil society.
Highlight Events
On Tuesday, January 28, the ODPC will officially launch its Eldoret Regional Office at Daima Tower. The day will also include remarks from high-ranking officials, including the Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy, the German Ambassador, and the EU Ambassador.
Economic and Digital Transformation
According to Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii, the conference reflects Eldoret’s growing importance as a hub for innovation and digital economy discussions. “We are honored to host this pivotal event, which reinforces our county’s role in driving Kenya’s digital transformation,”the governor stated.
A Call for Collaboration
The ODPC’s vision for the conference is to foster collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen Kenya’s data protection framework. “Privacy is a shared responsibility,”remarked Victor Ndede from Amnesty International Kenya. We must work together to ensure individuals rights are protected while enabling digital innovation.
The Annual Data Privacy Conference 2025 promises to be a cornerstone event, advancing Kenya’s commitment to responsible data handling and supporting its journey toward a thriving, secure digital future.
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