NITA-U, PDPO Train Journalists on Cybersecurity, Data Protection and Privacy.

The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) in collaboration with Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), trained over 50 journalists from print, radio, television, and online media houses on cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy on 12th November 2025.

The engagement, held at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, will strengthen media capacity in reporting on cybersecurity, data privacy, and protection.

According to a recent survey, only 13% of Ugandans are aware of data privacy laws and security highlighting the critical role of this training in filling this gap.

This Media engagement is a step in the right direction especially with the digital transformation in Uganda.

In his opening remarks, Arnold Mangeni, NITA-U’s Director of Information Security, emphasized the crucial role of the media in protecting citizens’ digital lives.

“We acknowledge that journalists are key partners in raising awareness and promoting trusted cybersecurity and data protection practices.

Accurate and informed reporting protects not only systems and organizations, but also the citizens behind them,” Arnold added.

“Media practitioners play a vital role in shaping public discourse on data protection and cybersecurity in Uganda. Journalists have a responsibility to inform and educate citizens about the importance of safeguarding personal data.

Let's work together to promote a culture of data protection and respect for digital rights in Uganda." —Gilbert Ssettuuma (Legal Officer) - PDPO and one of the facilitators of the day.

“If everyone of us is secure,everyone else is secure”— Jerome Okot, a cybersecurity expert working with Milima, and one of the facilitators of the day.

"Having knowledge on cyber security helps one detect cyber security attacks and to take action" he added.

Jerome complemented the session with practical demonstrations and real-world case studies showing how media practitioners can safeguard their digital work spaces and sources.

Jerome asked journalists to enable multi-factor authentication, verify suspicious content, encrypt their email with Proton Mail, and avoid downloading files or apps from unverified sources.

The training is a significant initiative that is part of the Beera ku Guard campaign launched earlier this year with the aim to educate Ugandans on how to use digital platforms responsibly and protect their personal data from risks like fraud and identity theft.