Today, Uganda held one of its most important events in the technology and governance space – the Data Protection & Privacy CEO Conference 2025. The event brought together a wide range of key players including CEOs, policymakers, legal advisors, data protection officers, and ICT professionals. The goal of the conference was to spark dialogue and raise awareness about the importance of protecting personal data in a rapidly changing digital world.
Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, opened the conference with a strong message: “Data protection is more than just following rules, it’s about protecting reputations, supporting our economy, and securing future opportunities.” He reminded the audience that without proper data protection, sensitive information such as financial records, biometric data, and private conversations can easily be misused, posing real risks to people’s security and livelihoods.
The Minister emphasized that CEOs and decision-makers are not just business leaders they are custodians of public trust. He called on them to support efforts aligned with Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act (2019), as well as regional and global standards. This, he said, will help build public confidence and foster ethical growth in both public and private sectors.
Hon. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), added that “Privacy is no longer a luxury it’s essential in our everyday lives.” He explained that as new technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, digital IDs, and facial recognition become more common, organizations must make sure they’re protecting personal information. He called for an ethical approach that respects human rights in the digital age.
Another strong voice came from UCC’s Data Protection and Legal Advisory team. A key speaker pointed out that “Data is the new gold but it’s mined from people, not from the ground.” He reminded participants that privacy is a fundamental human right, not an afterthought. It should be a top priority for any institution working with personal information.
The 2025 CEO Conference made it clear that data protection is now a national conversation. It is no longer just an IT issue it’s about leadership, accountability, and safeguarding the public. Uganda is taking important steps forward, and today’s conference was a powerful reminder that protecting data means protecting people.
