As Africa shifts to becoming a Digital Investments Hub, Tanzania recently launched a personal Data protection commission to secure its digital space.
This critical step makes Tanzania, among other countries across East Africa, who have enacted personal data protection legislation.
This initiative underscored the government’s commitment to fortifying the digital space for the citizens, local and international investors.
According to a cybersecurity expert, Tanzania swiftly responds to Cyber protection calls by doing everything possible to ensure that digital investors trust its cyberspace.
“Tanzania is actively engaged to ensure that its cyberspace is trusted by digital investors, who are key to achieving the country’s digital economy goal.” With cybercrime laws already in place, the country is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding users and businesses operating in the digital space: cybersecurity expert Dr Msemo Munguja.
At the 3rd Tanzania Cybersecurity Forum 2024, held in Arusha for two days, Margus Mägi, Digital policy Expert, noted that for Tanzania’s economy to flourish, there must be trust in the legal environment and a secured cyberspace.
“For the economy to flourish, there must be trust in the legal environment, economic predictability and secure cyberspace. Cyber is an enabling factor for economic Growth, and digital capabilities are, in nature, more cross-border,” Margus Mägi noted in one of his presentations.
Meanwhile, the Director General for ICT, Dr Nkundwe Mwasaga, noted the importance of cybersecurity, stating Tanzania’s recognition of digital transformation’s dual nature, encompassing both technological advancement and behavioural change.
“The goals of digital transformation cannot be achieved if the issue of cybersecurity is not given appropriate attention.’ Tanzania’s recognition of digital transformation’s dual nature, encompassing both technological advancement and behavioural change, underlines its comprehensive approach to fostering a secure digital environment.”
Dr Mwasaga elucidated, “Digital transformations are built on the use of digital technologies and a change in human behaviour; this holistic perspective acknowledges that while technological innovation drives progress, it must be complemented by a societal readiness to leverage ICT effectively.”
Tanzania ICT Commission is entrusted with promoting ICT development and plays a pivotal role in Tanzania’s journey towards becoming a digital economy powerhouse.
Dr Mwasaga asserts, “The country’s ICT Commission has seen it fit to drive the digital economy goal to achievement. Moreover, forums like the Tanzania Cybersecurity Forum provide invaluable platforms for discourse on cybersecurity and digital economy aspirations.”
Tanzania’s 3rd Cyber Security Forum, Themed “Charting a Shared and Inclusive Future in Cyberspace,” brought together key stakeholders and experts who gathered to foster dialogue on sustainable digital practices and emerging technologies.
Countries globally are now vigilant about how citizens’ personal data is used and stored and are now urging their citizens to be more vigilant about what information to share publicly.
As countries Across Africa are actively enacting this GDPR law, it gives people greater control over how their data is used and governs how every business and organization must handle consumer and employee data.
Excellent data management is key for a country’s digital economic Growth, and Tanzania is effectively adhering to this call.
