Today the President of Tanzania, H. E. Samia Suluhu Hassan officially inaugurated the Tanzanian Personal Data Protection Commission. The data protection commission was established by the Personal Data Protection Act No. 11, 2022, and its responsibilities defined.
“Today, as we launch this Commission (PDPC), let it be known that it has a very important task, as it is a critical Commission for our society. The security of our information is in your hands, and our dignity is in your hands,” stated the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu.
One of the Commission’s responsibilities is to maintain a comprehensive register of all entities that collect and process personal data. Its regulations specify the registration procedure for data collectors and processors of personal information.
Secondly, the Commission serves as a dedicated port of call for individuals who suspect their data privacy has been infringed. Regulations under GN. 350 of May 12, 2023, outline the procedures for filing complaints against violations of personal data protection principles. PDPC investigates complaints and administers punitive measures in the event of violations.
The Commission also keeps a watchful eye on the technological landscape, conducting research on data processing advancements to adapt their regulations accordingly.
“We, as the Personal Data Protection Commission assure you, Your Excellency, that you will see the fruits of your labour. We assure you that we will protect personal information with great care,” said Chairman of the Board, Ambassador Adadi Mohammed Rajabu.
The commission has been operational for close to a year. It began operations on May 1st 2023 after the Tanzania Personal Data Protection Law came into effect. Last year, the PDPC had a four-day study tour in Kenya. The tour was aimed at enhancing knowledge sharing on data protection concerns for both countries.
