Strengthening Data Protection: A Call to IT Professionals in the Public Sector

The Data Protection Office (DPO) recently participated in a specialized training session organized by the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA). This initiative aimed to equip IT professionals from various ministries and government agencies with essential expertise in network management and cybersecurity.

As part of the program, the DPO delivered an insightful presentation on the Data Protection and Privacy (DPP) law, emphasizing its vital role in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“In an era of emerging technologies, IT professionals play a crucial role in data processing. It is essential for them to possess a strong legal understanding of personal data protection to ensure privacy by both design and default. Therefore, Data Protection and Privacy laws should serve as a fundamental reference in all data processing activities within the IT sector.” — Gerard Karuhanga, DPO Representative

The training, attended by approximately 50 IT professionals, was designed to enhance their expertise in cybersecurity, covering both foundational and advanced concepts. Participants gained practical skills in:

• Firewall management
• Troubleshooting
• Incident response
• Data protection compliance
• Cybersecurity awareness and digital forensics