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Government Launches Public Consultation on Draft Data Protection and Privacy Policy
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The Government of The Gambia has launched a public consultation on its draft Data Protection and Privacy Policy, aimed at protecting the privacy and personal data of citizens.
Establishing a Gambian Data Protection Authority
According to the policy, the government intends to establish a Gambian Data Protection Authority, which will be responsible for ensuring the protection of privacy and personal data in the country. To achieve this, the authority will need an estimated amount of funds and resources, which will be included in the state budget.
- The government is seeking assistance from international organizations such as ECOWAS, African Union, and the Council of Europe to support the establishment and funding of the Gambian Data Protection Authority.
Raising Awareness on Data Protection and Privacy
The policy aims to raise awareness on the importance of data protection and privacy among the national administration, the general public, and internationally. This will be achieved through targeted public relations and media campaigns, including the production of information leaflets and online publication.
- The government is planning to raise awareness on data protection and privacy through a series of events, including an annual celebration of International Data Protection Day on January 28.
- Educating the public about the importance of data protection and privacy is crucial in ensuring their safety and security online.
Public Consultation Launched
The public consultation is part of a broader effort to ensure that the draft policy is compliant with other national legislation and international commitments. The government is inviting all stakeholders, including citizens, civil society organizations, and private sector entities, to provide their input on the policy through a series of public consultations.
- “The public consultation is an important step in ensuring that our data protection and privacy policy reflects the needs and concerns of all stakeholders,” said [Name], Minister for [Ministry].
- “We encourage everyone to participate in this process and share their views on how we can best protect the privacy and personal data of citizens.”
Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, personal data refers to any information relating to an identified or identifiable individual. Data processing means any operation or set of operations performed on personal data, including collection, storage, preservation, alteration, retrieval, disclosure, making available, erasure, or destruction.
Timeline
The public consultation period is expected to last for several weeks, during which time stakeholders can submit their comments and feedback on the draft policy. The deadline for submissions is [Date].
Media Contact
For more information or to request an interview with a representative of the Government of The Gambia, please contact [Name] at [Email] or [Phone number].