The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U), in partnership with the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), has launched the “Beera Ku Guard” nationwide public awareness campaign, designed to raise awareness around cybersecurity, data protection and privacy both online and offline.
The campaign, officiated by Arnold Mangeni, the Director, Information Security at NITA-U, is an extensive six-month, multi-channel awareness effort.
This will be rolled out through TV, radio, social media and digital platforms, and targeted institutional engagements, delivering practical guidance on cyber hygiene and data protection best practices.
Mangeni emphasised that digital transformation must be anchored in trust, responsibility and safety.
“We cannot talk about a modern, digital Uganda without putting safety and trust at the centre. Beera Ku Guard is a call to action for every citizen and every organisation to safeguard personal data and use digital platforms responsibly,” said Mangeni.
The campaign marks a significant step in Uganda’s efforts to strengthen public awareness around cybersecurity, data protection and privacy.
Uganda’s digital transformation has brought more than 13 million citizens online. Yet recent data shows 48.8 per cent of Ugandans are aware of cybersecurity, only 13.6 percent understand the concepts of data protection and privacy.
The Uganda Police Crime Report 2024 has already noted a shift in crime from physical spaces to digital platforms.
Paul Kakeeto, the Manager, Public Relations and Marketing at the Personal Data Protection Office, noted that “Digital transformation must be anchored in digital trust.”
“This campaign will demystify laws, translate rights into relatable language, and inspire every Ugandan to own their online safety. Beera Ku Guard will empower individuals and institutions to take practical steps in protecting personal data.”