Nationwide School and Hospital Inspections Mandated by Government

Nationwide School and Hospital Inspections Mandated by Government

Nationwide School and Hospital Inspections Mandated by Government. Immaculate Kassait, the Data Commissioner, has announced a nationwide investigation. This aims to ensure compliance with data protection regulations in both commercial and public establishments. During Kisumu County’s International Data Privacy Day, she revealed plans for over 40 operations this year. These operations will specifically target educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and communication firms that already have data protection policies in place.

Highlighting previous actions taken in 2023, Kassait emphasized that these inspections aim to verify institutions’ adherence to the Data Protection Act, 2019, and Data Protection Regulations. Notably, the Office obtained approval from the National Treasury to outsource auditing and training services. This involves fifty prequalified firms, ultimately boosting compliance and creating jobs in the private sector.

The commissioner assured timely responses within 90 days to concerns regarding personal data. Following investigations, 2,761 of the 3,553 complaints received in 2023 were resolved. Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo also stressed the importance of governmental compliance with data privacy laws. He reported that the Office has registered 150 government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies out of the total 3,739.

President William Ruto’s directive aligns with urging ministries and state departments to register with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. Looking ahead, Nairobi, Kenya, will host the 2024 Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA) AGM. This announcement coincides with the government’s proclamation of mandatory nationwide school and hospital inspections.