Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma in Victoria Falls
THE promulgation of the Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act is on the cards as Government fine-tunes its systems to ensure maximum protection of its citizens while bringing to account entities mandated to safeguard private information.
Addressing delegates attending the Potraz Data Privacy Week Symposium, which ended yesterday in Victoria Falls, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Tatenda Mavetera said Government will continue to ensure that citizens data is protected in line with the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021.
“We are aware of efforts by the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to promulgate a Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act.
“The Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021 in section 31 creates an obligation on the part of the Data Protection Authority to come up with rules governing whistleblowing in the data space,” she said.
“The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services stands ready to collaborate and support the efforts of the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs to craft the Public Interest Disclosure (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act.
“We will also be knocking on the door of the newly appointed Minister of State for National Security to contribute to the Cyber Security and Monitoring of Interceptions of Communications Committee, which is to be established under the purview of the State Security Ministry. Collaboration should not just be speechified but it must be actualised,” said Mavetera, who was accompanied by ICT Deputy Minister Dingumuzi Phuti.
Dr Mavetera said Zimbabwe, like many nations, faces unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of data privacy.
“As we embrace digital transformation, we must ensure that our policies and frameworks are robust enough to safeguard our citizens’ data while promoting innovation,” she said.
“This symposium serves as an essential platform to discuss these issues, share insights and collaborate on best practices.
“The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to advancing data privacy and protection. We have recognised that effective data governance is crucial for economic growth, consumer confidence and international partnerships.”
Minister Mavetera said as a Government, they recognise that trust is the cornerstone of digital transformation, and that without robust privacy protections, citizens cannot confidently embrace the digital tools that promise to uplift society.
“I am proud to highlight the strides we have made since the enactment of the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021. This legislation laid the groundwork for a secure digital ecosystem, mandating accountability for data handlers and empowering citizens with rights over their personal information,” she said.
“Under this framework, Potraz has been instrumental in Regulatory Enforcement, Public Awareness and Capacity Building but despite progress, challenges persist.”
Minister Mavetera noted that challenges of cybercrime syndicates are becoming more sophisticated and that gaps in digital literacy leave vulnerable populations exposed.
To address this, Dr Mavetera called for the strengthening of collaboration, investing in innovation and prioritising inclusion.
“I want to also take this opportunity to remind Potraz of its role in supporting the establishment of a fully functional security operations centre under the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services.
“Privacy is not the sole responsibility of regulators or policymakers. Each citizen, business and institution must play their part. Report breaches, demand transparency and practice vigilance. Together, we can build a Zimbabwe where technology serves as a shield, not a threat,” said Minister Mavetera.
She said it is crucial for citizens to appreciate that privacy is the bedrock of dignity and freedom in the digital age.
“As we commemorate Privacy Week, let us renew our resolve to protect every Zimbabwean’s right to a safe and secure digital future,” said Dr Mavetera.
The three-day symposium, which ends today, is being held under the theme, “Bridging Technology, Policy, Law and Practice Towards Strengthening Data Protection in Zimbabwe”.
A cross-section of data protection experts, academics, researchers, businessmen, regulators, policy makers and security services officers are participating.
Online Reporter