Vusumuzi Dube
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Senior Writer
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) has underscored the need for a strong culture of privacy and trust as the country accelerates its march towards a digitally enabled economy by 2030.
In an update to raise awareness on International Data Privacy Week 2026, to be observed from January 25 to 31, the regulator said digital transformation efforts must be anchored on responsible data protection practices by both individuals and organisations.
Potraz Director General Dr Gift Machengete said the commemorations are meant to empower citizens to take greater control of their personal data through awareness, education and practical action.
“Pursuant to its mandate of promoting knowledge and awareness on data protection in terms of the Cyber and Data Protection Act (Chapter 12:01), the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) will join the international community in commemorating International
Data Privacy Week 2026, to be observed from 25 to 31 January 2026.
“International Data Privacy Week is observed annually during the last week of January to raise public awareness on the importance of protecting personal data and promoting privacy rights as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Section 57 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe,” he said.
He said the global event serves as a reminder that privacy protection is a shared responsibility.
“This global commemoration serves as a reminder to both individuals and organisations of their shared responsibility to be responsible digital citizens in the way personal information is collected, shared, used, stored and ultimately disposed of.
“As the nation marches towards a digitally enabled economy by 2030, it is imperative to recognise that digitalisation cannot succeed without a strong culture of privacy and trust in digital services and platforms. These commemorations, therefore, seek to encourage citizens to take greater control of their personal data through awareness, education and practical action,” he added.
Potraz is commemorating this year’s Data Privacy Week under the theme: “Privacy as the Default: A Foundation for Trust and Innovation in a Digitally Enabled Economy.”
The theme calls on individuals and organisations to embed privacy by default in their daily activities and operations, reinforcing the principle that privacy should not be treated as an optional add-on but as a built-in standard across digital services, organisational processes and emerging technologies.
“In an increasingly data-driven digital environment, trust is the currency that enables innovation, sustainable digital transformation, and inclusive participation in online services. Privacy-by-default practices strengthen this trust by ensuring that personal data is collected and processed lawfully, fairly, transparently and only to the extent necessary for legitimate purposes.
“Potraz, therefore, urges all Data Controllers to embrace responsible data governance measures, including limiting the collection of personal data to what is strictly necessary, implementing robust security safeguards, conducting privacy risk assessments where required, ensuring accountability across all data processing operations, maintaining meaningful transparency with data subjects, reporting data breaches timeously and submitting notifications of cross-border data transfers to the Authority,” said Dr Machengete.
He noted that individuals also have a role to play in safeguarding their personal information.
He encouraged citizens to take practical steps to protect sensitive data such as names, physical addresses, health records and financial details from unauthorised access, misuse or unlawful disclosure, as Zimbabwe advances towards a secure and trusted digital future.
Online Reporter