Kenya has launched a Sh 12.6 billion data protection plan and opened a regional office in Nyeri as it expands digital services across the country.
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025–2029 on Thursday, during an event attended by ICT Cabinet Secretary for ICT William Kabogo, Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait and Nyeri County Commissioner Ronald Mwiwawi.
Kabogo noted data protection is no longer a backroom issue but a foundation of trust in the digital economy.
“We must acknowledge that data protection is not just a legal formality; it is a foundational pillar of trust in the digital economy,” Kabogo said.
He observed the Nyeri office, now the eighth regional branch, would expand access to data protection services as government services move online.
“With the opening of this office, we are laying down the infrastructure for a secure and inclusive digital future for all Kenyans,” Kabogo added.
Kassait explained the new plan shifts the ODPC from enforcement alone to building a culture of data protection rooted in awareness and accountability.
“We want to ensure that data protection is not an afterthought but an integral part of Kenya’s digital development,” Kassait noted.
She added the ODPC plans to harmonise Kenya’s data practices with global standards, including seeking an adequacy decision from the European Union to boost digital trade.
The plan also proposes regulatory sandboxes to test emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain without compromising privacy.
Kenya has invested in digital infrastructure, including plans to roll out 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable and digital hubs in all constituencies, raising concerns about the safety of personal data collected through these systems.
Kabogo explained the ODPC would review existing regulations on social media and personal data sharing to adapt to evolving technology.
“We must ensure that our regulations evolve with technology,” Kabogo observed.
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The five-year plan projects a funding gap of Sh 3.7 billion, with the ODPC planning to strengthen its resource mobilisation strategy through partnerships with development agencies and sector collaborations.
The ODPC has registered more than 11,000 data controllers and processors, conducted more than 100 audits and resolved most complaints under its previous plan, Kassait said.
By David Njaaga
