Open Institute

Over the past days, we brought together policymakers, regulators, technologists, researchers, civil society, private sector leaders, and innovators to reflect on the future of data governance in East Africa under the theme ‘Navigating Duality in Data Governance: Innovation and Accountability in East Africa’ A sincere thank you to all our speakers who shared their expertise and challenged us to think deeper about how data should be governed in a rapidly evolving digital world. Your insights made the conversations rich, practical, and forward-looking. We are equally grateful to our partners and sponsors whose support made this convening possible. Your commitment to strengthening responsible and inclusive data ecosystems continues to drive meaningful change across the region. To everyone who attended, participated in discussions, asked questions, and engaged both in-person and online, thank you for being part of this important conversation. The conference may be over, but the work continues. Let’s keep the momentum going as we work together to build trusted, secure, and people-centered data systems in East Africa. @alkags , @ODPC_KE, @StrathCIPIT, @KCBInKenya , @TISAKenya, @SafaricomPLC, @pdpoUG , @ASSEKnews , @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi @Ikassait #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DataProtection

Data is currency, and it is power. When access to data and digital systems is not equitably distributed, many people are left behind, especially young women and girls. To illustrate this reality, Lady Mariéme Jamme shared her personal story at the East Africa Data Governance Conference. Despite being Senegalese, she was left out of the national registry as a child and does not officially exist in it; she can only move around with a British passport. Her experience reflects the lived reality of many women and girls across Africa who remain invisible in data systems. In response, she founded I Am The Code to equip young women and girls with coding skills, ensuring they are not excluded but instead can actively participate in the software development and broader data ecosystem. Listen here: youtube.com/watch?v=Rq7qQD… @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @StrathCIPIT @i_amthecode @TISAKenya @pdpoUG @ikassait @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi #EADataGov26 #DataProtection #DataGovernance

The East Africa Data Governance Conference aims to create a platform for collaborative conversations on how we manage data and build a comprehensive regional framework for the data ecosystem. This is because data governance goes beyond protection and it’s about accountability, inclusion, and shared responsibility. As highlighted by @alkags , Open Institute has been actively sensitising the public on the importance of protecting personal data and staying safe online through the Ficha Uchi Campaign. This plays a critical role in strengthening data governance by empowering citizens to take an active role in safeguarding their data rights. Read more about the article the-star.co.ke/news/2026-03-1… Read more about Ficha Uchi Campaign fichauchi.org @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @TISAKenya @pdpoUG @ASSEKnews @ikassait @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #DataProtection

As Data Commissioner @Ikassait noted in her keynote address, there has been a surge in complaints from members of the public regarding the unethical use of personal data. This underscores the urgent responsibility for organisations to take data protection seriously and uphold ethical data practices. The Open Institute, through the #FichaUchi campaign has been at the forefront of raising awareness on data privacy, educating the public on how to protect their personal information and to exercise their rights under the Data Protection Act. Read more about Ficha Uchi Campaign on fichauchi.org Watch the full keynote address here: youtube.com/watch?v=eKbDR6… @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @SafaricomPLC @pdpoUG @Data4SDGs #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #DataProtection

“As a Data Values Advocate, I had the opportunity to speak on the panel “Whose Data Counts? Participation, Power, and Inclusive Governance.” I shared my experience working with grassroots communities where large amounts of data are collected and end up in reports that are rarely accessible to the very people who contributed it. I’ve also seen how data gets lost in translation. Many tools are designed in English, making it difficult for some community members to fully express their lived experiences which ultimately affect the quality and inclusivity of the data. At @maono_space , we work closely with changemakers and the community  to amplify grassroots voices and people-centered initiatives and data systems. I believe fair data gives the full picture. When everyone counts, decisions reflect reality, communities thrive, and no one is left behind. Fair data makes the invisible visible, gives voice to the voiceless, makes development inclusive, and shifts power to all.” - Lydia Furaha @alkags @AmnestyKenya @pdpoUG @nyogude @Data4SDGs #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #DataProtection #AIinAfrica

Thank you for being part of the East Africa Data Governance Conference 2026. As shared by our Programme Manager, Christine Ajulu (@nyogude), your participation, insights, and energy made this convening a meaningful success. From thought-provoking discussions to collaborative exchanges, the conference reaffirmed the importance of building transparent, inclusive, and accountable data ecosystems across East Africa. If you missed any sessions or would like to revisit the conversations, you can watch them here: Watch Day 1 discussions: lnkd.in/dFR7rVBF Watch Day 2 discussions: lnkd.in/dFDVa-Vs We are excited to continue this journey with you and officially welcome the 3rd edition of the East Africa Data Governance Conference in 2027. Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and opportunities to engage. Let’s keep the conversation going. @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @StrathCIPIT @KCBInKenya @TISAKenya @SafaricomPLC @pdpoUG @ASSEKnews @UNESCO @VictorNdede @EdnaKasozi #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #DataProtection #AIinAfrica

The East Africa Data Governance Conference 2026 reminded us that building strong and trusted data ecosystems requires more than technology, it requires collaboration, transparency, and accountability. One of the most encouraging aspects of the conference was the energy and engagement from participants. The audience actively contributed to the conversations, raising thoughtful questions, challenging perspectives, and sharing experiences from across the region. This level of engagement showed a strong collective commitment to shaping a more transparent, accountable, and people-centred digital future for East Africa. As we reflect on the conversations and insights shared, the work continues. We invite partners, institutions, and individuals interested in advancing responsible data governance to join us in building stronger collaborations moving forward. We are already looking ahead to the East Africa Data Governance Conference 2027. To stay updated on future opportunities for partnership and participation, follow our social platforms and visit our website: openinstitute.africa @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @StrathCIPIT @KCBInKenya @TISAKenya @SafaricomPLC @pdpoUG @ASSEKnews @UNESCO @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi @ikassait #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #AIinAfrica #DataProtection

The East Africa Data Governance Conference 2026 convened diverse voices from across the region to reflect on one critical question: How can East Africa harness digital innovation while safeguarding rights, trust, and accountability? Over two days, the conference explored key themes including community agency and inclusion in data governance, accountability and ethical data practices, collaboration across stakeholders, innovation grounded in equity and community participation, data protection litigation and legal progress, and regional cooperation in building trusted and resilient data systems. The conversations made one thing clear: the future of data governance in East Africa must be collaborative, people-centred, and grounded in strong governance frameworks. If you missed the sessions or would like to revisit the key insights, read our full recap of the conference: openinstitute.africa/2026/03/13/eas… Watch Day 1 discussions: youtube.com/watch?v=SIyyRe… Watch Day 2 discussions: youtube.com/watch?v=K7MX5Y… @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @StrathCIPIT @KCBInKenya @TISAKenya @SafaricomPLC @pdpoUG @ASSEKnews @UNESCO @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi @Ikassait #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #DataProtection

👉🏽 youtu.be/9TKvLDTiZaw?si… "In an African framing grounded in Ubuntu or Ujamaa, governance is relational. I am because we are.” ~Dr. Melissa Omino (LLD)

Day 2 deepened conversations on building responsible, people-centered data ecosystems in East Africa. Key discussions included the human story behind governance, the value & risks of Digital Public Infrastructure, community voices in data ethics, and human oversight of AI during elections. The takeaway: innovation and accountability must evolve together. 🎥 Watch Day 2: youtube.com/watch?v=K7MX5Y… @alkags , @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya, @StrathCIPIT, @KCBInKenya , @TISAKenya, @SafaricomPLC, @pdpoUG , @ASSEKnews , @UNESCO @VictorNdede, @nyogude, @EdnaKasozi, @ikassait, @SDGsKenyaForum #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #AIinAfrica #DigitalRights

Day 1 of the East Africa Data Governance Conference 2026 sparked key conversations on the future of data, AI, and digital rights in the region. Discussions explored tech growth vs rights, data sovereignty, cross-boarder data flow, safeguarding regional data systems, synthetic media, and rebuilding accountability. The message was clear: collaboration among stakeholders in building inclusive and trusted data governance is essential for East Africa’s digital future. Watch the sessions: youtube.com/watch?v=SIyyRe… @alkags @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya @StrathCIPIT @KCBInKenya @TISAKenya @SafaricomPLC @pdpoUG @ASSEKnews @UnescoEast @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi @ikassait @SDGsKenyaForum #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DataProtection #DigitalRights

As we conclude Day 2 and the final day of the East Africa Data Governance Conference, we reflect on two days of powerful conversations on the future of data governance in our region. From discussions on human and dataset, digital public infrastructure, data protection litigation, and data sovereignty and cross-border governance, to conversations about community-centered data governance, regional cooperation, and innovation with accountability, one message stood out clearly: the future of data in East Africa must be built on trust, transparency, and collaboration. We are grateful to all our speakers, partners, policymakers, researchers, technologists, civil society actors, and participants who shared insights, challenged perspectives, and helped push this conversation forward. Your engagement shows that building a responsible, inclusive, and secure data ecosystem in East Africa requires all of us. While the conference may have come to an end, the conversation continues. Follow our platforms for highlights, insights, and continued discussions on the future of data governance, digital rights, and innovation in Africa. @alkags , @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya, @StrathCIPIT, @KCBInKenya , @TISAKenya, @SafaricomPLC, @pdpoUG , @ASSEKnews , @UNESCO @VictorNdede @nyogude @EdnaKasozi @Ikassait #EADataGov26 #DataGovernance #DataProtection

“The cost of accessing research data is often very high for startups, and in many cases the available data does not adequately cover emerging sectors. This creates a challenge for startups that rely on quality data to innovate and grow. One key question is how startups can collect their own data while also enabling SMEs to leverage existing datasets that are relevant and accessible.” - Mercy Kimalat, Chief Executive Officer, ASSEK — Association of Startup & SMEs Enablers of Kenya @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya,@pdpoUG #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE #DataGovernance

“We need to appreciate and understand the sensitivity of witness protection measures, and recognize that as an individual, you might be the first line of defense in protecting the identity or any identifying information about that person.” — Commissioner Emeritus Jedidah Wakonyo Waruhiu, Director and Chief Executive, Kenya Witness Protection Agency (KWPA) @Open_Institute @ODPC_KE #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE

“With the cost of technology becoming more affordable, startups now have access to larger amounts of information and richer datasets, empowering them to create and innovate at a much faster pace. But access alone is not enough, we must continue strengthening the enabling environment so that startups can use this data responsibly, creatively, and competitively as they scale.” — Mercy Kimalat, Chief Executive Officer, ASSEK — Association of Startup & SMEs Enablers of Kenya @Open_Institute @ODPC_KE #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE

“Across the region, countries are at different stages of progress in data governance, which makes regional alignment both necessary and challenging. A key starting point for harmonization should be data flows within the East African region, clearly defining what data can be shared, under what conditions, and through which safeguards. This requires developing frameworks that enable secure data transfer, ensuring that information can move across borders while maintaining strong protections for privacy and security. “ Dr. Emmanuel Mkalia, Director General - Personal Data Protection Office Tanzania @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya,@pdpoUG #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE #DataGovernance

“In witness protection, the primary priority is ensuring that data systems protect the identity and safety of the witness. This includes putting safeguards in place so that sensitive information can be securely stored, restricted, anonymized, or even erased when necessary, ensuring that a witness’s identity remains protected.” Jedidah Waruhiu - CEO, Witness Protection Agency @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya,@pdpoUG, @alkags #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE #DataGovernance

“We have reached different milestones in developing technology, but that is not the real challenge. The challenge is how we can harmonize. We can begin with cross‑border data flows, because this is where we determine which data should be exchanged, how it should be exchanged, and to what extent.” — Dr. Emmanuel Mkilia, Director General, Personal Data Protection Commission of Tanzania (PDPC) @Open_Institute @ODPC_KE #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE

“When discussing data sovereignty, an important question arises: do we have the right fundamentals and skills in place to truly achieve it? It also prompts reflection on whether we are making the right investments to support sustainable and independent digital ecosystems. Data sovereignty is inherently complex to implement. Achieving it requires more than policy statements, it demands deliberate investment in local infrastructure, skills, and systems.” - Linet Kwamboka - Institute for Development Data @ODPC_KE, @AmnestyKenya, @pdpoUG, @alkags #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE #DataGovernance

“Co-creating public digital infrastructure can significantly strengthen trust in data governance. As non-state actors, we contribute technical expertise by supporting the design of data systems, developing frameworks for accountability, and building mechanisms for auditing and oversight. Our role is to help ensure that digital systems are trusted, secure, and transparent, with safeguards that allow them to be properly audited and governed.” - Emmanuel Emurugat - GIZ Kenya Follow the live conversation: youtube.com/live/SIyyReeAz… @ODPC_KE @AmnestyKenya #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE #DataGovernance