By Nuh Mohamed - Reporter
Kenya, 5 July 2026 – Somalia joined African countries in Nairobi for five-day workshop June 30-July 4 on harmonizing data protection rules and strengthening data governance across Africa.
Officials from Somalia’s Data Protection Authority took part in the event alongside counterparts from Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Liberia, Malawi and Lesotho.
The workshop provided a platform for African data protection authorities to exchange knowledge, share experiences and discuss best practices in implementing personal data protection frameworks.
Discussions focused on strengthening institutional cooperation and aligning legal and regulatory frameworks governing data protection across the continent.
The event was jointly organized by the European Union, the African Union and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) as part of broader efforts to support data governance systems in Africa.
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Somalia’s Data Protection Authority said participation in the program reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, deepen international cooperation and adopt best practices in data protection.
The workshop comes as African countries move to improve data governance frameworks in response to growing digitalization and rising cybersecurity threats. Internet penetration in Africa has reached around 38% of the population, according to the International Telecommunication Union.
Cybercrime is estimated to cost African economies more than $4 billion annually, according to the African Union.
More than 46 African countries have enacted data protection laws, with 39 adopting standalone data protection legislation, according to the International Association of Privacy Professionals.
Officials say strengthening regulatory frameworks and cross-border cooperation will be critical as African economies accelerate digital transformation and expand access to online services.