Home
FacebookTwitterSearchMenu
  • Subscribe
  • Subscribe
  • News
  • Features
  • Knowledge Library
  • Columns
  • Customs
  • Jobs
  • Directory
  • FX Rates
  • Contact us
    • Contact us
    • About Us
    • Advertise
    • Send us news
    • Editorial Guidelines
Economy
Technology

EAC makes progress in enhancing digital integration

29 Oct 2024 - by Staff reporter
 Source: eWorld New
0 Comments

Share

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Google+
  • LinkedIn
  • E-mail
  • Print

The East African Community (EAC) has taken a significant step forward in enhancing digital integration and safeguarding data privacy with the development of a regional Data Governance Policy Framework.

The Framework, which aims to harmonise data governance across partner states to foster secure, efficient, and inclusive digital systems for sustainable economic growth and regional integration, was validated by a diverse group of stakeholders in Kigali, Rwanda, recently.

Speaking during the three-day workshop on behalf of the EAC deputy secretary general in charge of customs, trade and monetary affairs, Annette Ssemuwemba, the EAC principal information technology officer, Eng Daniel Murenzi, highlighted the importance of data governance in fostering economic growth, improving governance, and ensuring public trust in digital systems.

“Data is at the heart of our economic future. Effective data governance will enable the region to harness the benefits of digitalisation, while ensuring that citizens’ data is protected and used responsibly,” said Murenzi

The workshop comes at a time when the EAC is moving forward with the harmonisation of its data governance systems in alignment with the African Union Data Policy Framework, adopted in 2022.

“We are at a critical juncture,” said Murenzi. “By developing the EAC Data Governance Policy Framework, we are creating a unified regional approach to data governance that aligns with continental priorities and ensures the safety and efficiency of digital services in our region,” he added.

Prof Venansius Baryamureeba, the lead consultant in the development of the framework, underscored the importance of a unified approach to data governance. “Data protection is no longer an option; it is a necessity for building trust in the digital economy,” he said.

The Framework aims to harmonise the region’s approach to data management, ensuring that partner states adopt common standards for data protection, privacy, and security. 

The validation of this framework builds on a series of earlier initiatives, including successful data protection knowledge exchanges in Nairobi, Kenya, and Kampala, Uganda, as well as a consultative workshop in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

A key focus of the meeting was the finalisation of actionable recommendations, designed to harmonise the data governance frameworks of each EAC partner state, ensuring consistency and interoperability. By establishing common standards, the EAC seeks to enhance both data protection and digital security, ultimately improving public trust in digital systems and creating a secure foundation for economic growth within the region.

Sign up to our mailing list and get daily news headlines and weekly features directly to your inbox free.
Subscribe to receive print copies of Freight News Features to your door.

RFA celebrates 50 years of road freight industry dedication

Road/Rail Freight

The RFA is the unified voice of South Africa's road freight industry, known for its advocacy, leadership, and commitment to sustainable transport.

Yesterday
0 Comments

OPINION: Sars customs cadets training – can the private sector assist?

Customs

Trade has welcomed the initiative, mainly due to an exodus of experienced officers over the past few years.

Yesterday
0 Comments

On-point logistics buys peace of mind for agri brand

Imports and Exports

Trusted transport and customs clearing ensure value chain integrity for pellet machine manufacturer.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Mdaki: Transnet Port Terminals on growth path

Logistics

Apart from investing R3.4 billion in new equipment, the operator is improving loading cycles and infrastructure to boost volumes.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Intra-Africa trade could be strategic response to US tariffs

Africa

But infrastructure gaps remain a challenge to fully realising the potential of the $3.4-trillion market.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Hong Kong authorities arrest ship’s captain

Sea Freight

Wan Wenguo has been detained in connection with damage to the natural gas infrastructure connecting Estonia and Finland.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Robbers hit vessels in Singapore Strait

Sea Freight

A surge in attacks by armed gangs has raised concerns about the safety of ships transiting the region.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Citrus growers laser-focused on export growth

Imports and Exports

Expanding market access for export produce requires a concerted and collaborative effort between government and farmers.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

Transnet wage talks continue at CCMA

Logistics

The United National Transport Union and the ports operator will meet this week in an attempt to resolve the deadlock.

13 May 2025
0 Comments

US road freight sector reeling from ‘Trump tariffs’

Road/Rail Freight

23% of respondents said rising diesel costs were the greatest issue their businesses faced.

12 May 2025
0 Comments

Driver’s licence card printer back in operation

Domestic

But the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse has raised concerns about a tender for a new machine and whether card prices will be hiked.

12 May 2025
0 Comments

DP World strengthens its Dominican foothold

Logistics

The port’s capacity is set to increase from 2.5m to approximately 3.1m TEUs.

12 May 2025
0 Comments
  • More

FeatureClick to view

Sea Freight May 2025

Border Beat

The N4 Maputo Corridor crossing – congestion, crime and potholes
12 May 2025
Fuel-crime curbing causes tanker build-up at Moz border
08 May 2025
Border police turn the tide on illegal crossings
29 Apr 2025
More

Featured Jobs

New

Import Manager (NVOCC)

Switch Recruit
Eastrand
15 May
New

Junior Finance Manager (SAICA)

Tiger Recruitment
East Rand
14 May
New

Sales Co-Ordinator

Lee Botti & Associates
Cape Town
14 May
More Jobs
  • © Now Media
  • Privacy Policy
  • Freight News RSS
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Send us news
  • Contact us