Ghana has introduced the National Privacy Awareness Campaign, a year-long initiative aimed at protecting citizens’ digital rights and building trust in the nation’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
The campaign was officially launched by Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, during a ceremony held at the Data Protection Commission headquarters in East Legon.
Strengthening Trust in the Digital Space
The Ministry stressed that privacy and data protection are vital not only for meeting legal requirements but also for:
- Encouraging innovation and competitiveness
- Ensuring active citizen engagement online
- Building public confidence in AI-driven development
This initiative aligns with Ghana’s ambition to establish itself as the AI Hub of Africa, recognizing the central role that responsible data governance plays in socio-economic growth.
Key Announcements at the Launch
- Ghana Association of Privacy Professionals (GAPP): Launched to promote knowledge exchange, capacity building, and international best practices.
- Certified Data Protection Supervisors & Officers: Many trained through the One Million Coders Programme were recognized for their contributions to improving Ghana’s data protection landscape.
- Call for Collaboration: The Ministry urged partnerships among government, business, academia, civil society, and the media to strengthen a privacy-first culture.
Reinforcing Data Governance
Dr. Arnold Kavaarpuo, Executive Director of the Data Protection Commission, reaffirmed the Commission’s role under the Data Protection Act, 2012, to safeguard individual privacy and regulate data use.
While pointing to achievements such as the registration of thousands of data controllers and processors, he noted persistent challenges, including:
- Limited public awareness
- Weak enforcement and compliance
- Shortage of trained privacy professionals
Campaign Scope and Timeline
Running from September 16, 2025, to September 2026, the campaign will span all 16 regions of Ghana. To maximize impact, it will be conducted in English as well as key local languages including Akan, Ga, Ewe, Hausa, and Dagbani.
The initiative seeks to embed privacy as a national priority, empowering citizens to exercise their digital rights while strengthening Ghana’s leadership in digital governance and artificial intelligence.
