Harare, (New Ziana) –The Zimbabwe government is committed to advancing data privacy and protection as it recognizes that its governance is crucial for economic growth, consumer confidence, and international partnerships.
Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Dr Tatenda Mavetera said this during the official opening of the 2nd edition of the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) Data Privacy week symposium in Victoria Falls.
She said regulatory frameworks must evolve to address the complexities of data processing and the potential risks associated with emerging technologies.
“As a government, we recognize that trust is the cornerstone of digital transformation. Without robust privacy protections, citizens cannot confidently embrace the digital tools that promise to uplift our society,” she said.
“I am proud to highlight the strides we have made since the enactment of the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021.
This legislation laid the groundwork for a secure digital ecosystem, mandating accountability for data handlers and empowering citizens with rights over their personal information,” she said.
Mavetera applauded POTRAZ for engaging in campaigns to educate citizens on cybersecurity hygiene and digital rights.
She added that more needs to be done to ensure that all Zimbabweans are not just aware of the existence of data privacy laws and regulations, but also have basic knowledge of important legal provisions governing data privacy.
“We are aware of current efforts by the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to promulgate a Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act. “The Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021 at section 31 creates an obligation on the part of the Data Protection Authority to come up with rules governing whistleblowing in the data space.
“The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services stands ready to collaborate and support the efforts of the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to craft the Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act,” she said.
Mavetera said her Ministry will be approaching the newly appointed Minister of State for National Security to contribute to the Cyber Security and Monitoring of Interceptions of Communications Committee which is to be established under the purview of the State Security Minister.
She urged POTRAZ to continue engaging stakeholders, updating regulatory frameworks in line with global standards, and holding violators accountable.
The three day long symposium which ends on Thursday, brings together ICT stakeholders to contribute their insights and expertise on data protection and privacy rights in Zimbabwe.
It is running under the theme “Bridging the Gap Between Technology, Policy, Law, and Practice: Towards Strengthening Data Protection in Zimbabwe.”
New Ziana