The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has called on Kenyans to actively report cases of personal data misuse to safeguard their rights and enhance accountability in data handling.
Speaking on Tuesday during a national advocacy program in Kisumu Central Constituency, Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait emphasized that filing complaints enables the ODPC to investigate and take action against perpetrators within 90 days. She noted that legal recourse, transparency, and accountability in data processing hinge on active public participation.
Kassait urged Kenyan netizens to file complaints through the ODPC’s website or visit its offices in Kisumu, Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, Machakos, Nyeri, and Nakuru. She stressed the importance of public awareness, urging individuals to understand their rights and take proactive steps in protecting their personal data when engaging with both public and private entities.
The commissioner revealed that as of this month, the ODPC has received 7,128 complaints, with 215 cases resolved. Additionally, penalties have been imposed on 10 organizations, 103 individuals have received compensation, and 39 cases have been settled through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Tuesday’s event marked the second phase of the ODPC’s nationwide awareness campaign, with simultaneous sessions held in Samburu, Makueni, Embu, Nyamira, and Ol Kalou. The initial phase covered Molo, Kisii, Oloitoktok, and Karatina, underscoring the agency’s commitment to strengthening data protection across the country.
