Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) mistakenly believe that data protection is only a concern for large corporations. However, high-profile breaches involving the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Commercial Bank have exposed sensitive client data, including names, ID numbers, email addresses, and phone numbers. These incidents underscore a critical truth. No business is immune to cyber threats. Past breaches are a stark reminder of the growing vulnerabilities that all businesses, regardless of size, face in the digital age.
In today’s digital economy, data is one of a business’s most valuable assets. Growing businesses, whether medium or large-sized, play a vital role in driving economic growth and innovation in Africa, including Kenya. However, with increasing regulations and rising consumer awareness about privacy, protecting this data is no longer optional.
Recognizing the growing demand for expertise in data protection, @iLabAfrica’s third cohort of the General Data Protection Regulation(GDPR)-Certified Data Protection Officer program was recently concluded, equipping professionals with essential knowledge on compliance and security best practices. The week-long intensive Data Protection Course is designed to bridge the gap between regulation and practical implementation. The course covers critical areas such as data governance, cybersecurity frameworks, and legal obligations, preparing participants to help businesses safeguard sensitive information effectively. As more industries prioritize data security, initiatives like these ensure that companies have skilled and certified professionals ready to mitigate risks and uphold privacy standards.
The first cohort of the 2025 GDPR course
The current data protection guidelines set by the European Union, which were later adopted by the Kenyan constitution in 2019, emphasize the protection of data that can be deemed personal and identifying. These guidelines affect all businesses, from small to large enterprises, and failure to understand and implement them has caused businesses to fall into financial crises. Mulla Pride Ltd, Casa Vera Lounge, and Roma School came under fire in 2013 for failure to comply with the set guidelines, and these were businesses that didn’t operate in the same industry. To avoid such incidents, it has become critical for organizations to become well-versed in data protection regulations, especially for lawyers, cybersecurity officers, and IT professionals.
Ivy Okeyo, left and Angela Gathima, pose for a photo after their graduation, PC: Kevin Ngumu
While small businesses might assume they can sidestep data protection concerns, the reality is that every company handling personal data must prioritize privacy and compliance. Appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO), whether full-time, part-time, or outsourced, is a proactive step that protects the business, its customers, and its reputation. In a world where data breaches and privacy concerns are rising, having a DPO is not just a regulatory checkbox but a strategic advantage. A well-trained DPO can help small businesses navigate complex regulations, avoid costly penalties, and build consumer trust, an invaluable asset in today’s competitive market.
Enrolling in a GDPR course is a crucial step for those looking to gain expertise in data protection. Such training provides in-depth knowledge of compliance requirements, risk management strategies, and best practices for securing sensitive information. Whether you are a business owner, IT professional, or legal expert, acquiring these skills will enhance your career and contribute to a safer digital ecosystem.
By Ajuna Lindah.