Makueni: Makueni County Commissioner Khalif Abdulahi has called on the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) to intensify public awareness on the protection of personal data among residents of the county.
According to Kenya News Agency, Abdulahi made these remarks at Wote Technical Training Institute during a one-day data sensitization forum. The event engaged various community stakeholders, including boda boda riders, chiefs, departmental heads, women leaders, and village elders, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal information in the digital era.
Abdulahi highlighted the increasing risks posed by technological advancements, stressing the urgent need for public education on data privacy and security. He called for stronger policy enforcement and compliance to ensure effective protection of personal data across all sectors.
During his address, Abdulahi underscored the importance of public awareness, stating that it is crucial for citizens to understand how to share information responsibly. He also highlighted the threats posed by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing, which have increased risks of data misuse, including phone hacking, unsolicited marketing, and biometric data exploitation.
Abdulahi urged the public to become aware of their data protection rights and to learn how to share personal information responsibly. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the procedures for lodging complaints in cases of data misuse.
Participants at the forum were educated on the legal framework provided under the Data Protection Act, 2019, with a focus on personal data protection and children’s rights. The forum was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including civil society organizations, clergy, youth groups, persons with disabilities, and women representatives.
