NITA-U, PDPO Train Journalists on Cybersecurity and Data Protection

Nakawa — The National Information Technology Authority–Uganda (NITA-U), in partnership with the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), has trained more than 50 journalists from print, radio, television, and online platforms on cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy.

The training, held at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, aimed to strengthen the media’s capacity to accurately report on issues of digital safety. Recent survey findings indicate that only 13% of Ugandans are aware of existing data privacy laws and cybersecurity practices, underscoring the need for increased public sensitisation. Organisers said the engagement marked an important step toward bridging that knowledge gap.

In his opening remarks, Arnold Mangeni, NITA-U’s Director of Information Security, highlighted the media’s essential role in informing the public about online safety.

“We acknowledge that journalists are key partners in raising awareness and promoting trusted cybersecurity and data protection practices. Accurate and informed reporting protects not only systems and organisations, but also the citizens behind them,” Mangeni said.

Gilbert Ssettuuma from PDPO, one of the day’s facilitators, urged journalists to take a proactive role in shaping public understanding of data protection.

“Media practitioners play a vital role in shaping public discourse on data protection and cybersecurity in Uganda. Journalists have a responsibility to inform and educate citizens about the importance of safeguarding personal data,” he said.

Cybersecurity expert Jerome Okot from Milima Digital delivered practical demonstrations and shared real-world scenarios on how journalists can keep their digital environments safe.

“If everyone of us is secure, everyone else is secure,” he noted, while encouraging journalists to adopt basic cyber hygiene practices such as using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and downloading files only from verified sources.

The training forms part of Beera Ku Guard, a nationwide digital safety campaign running from 2025 to 2026.

Led by NITA-U in partnership with PDPO, the campaign seeks to equip Ugandans with practical knowledge and habits to stay safe in both their online and offline digital interactions. It builds on previous initiatives such as Stay Safe Online, expanding its focus to include institutional data handling, privacy awareness, and strengthening digital trust across the country.