The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has announced the appointment of Baker Birikujja, as Uganda's new National Personal Data Protection Director.
His appointment was done under the Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap. 97.
Birikujja brings with him over a decade of expertise in data privacy governance, regulatory affairs, legal drafting, and cybersecurity.
Having served in several leadership capacities at the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) and the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), his contributions have been instrumental in shaping Uganda’s privacy framework.
He has overseen a two-fold increase in the registration of data controllers and processors, spearheaded the development of compliance frameworks and toolkits, and contributed to the drafting of Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act and Regulations.
Speaking after his appointment, Mr. Birikujja committed to focusing on strengthening regulatory oversight, increasing awareness among citizens about their privacy rights, and building a culture of compliance and accountability among data controllers and processors.
“I also envision positioning Uganda as a trusted hub for data protection on the continent, ensuring that privacy and innovation go hand in hand.”
Minister Baryomunsi, described the appointment as a timely move to reinforce Uganda’s commitment to data protection.
“We are at a point where digital transformation is accelerating across all sectors, and the protection of personal data must remain central. Mr. Birikujja’s appointment provides strong leadership to ensure that Uganda’s citizens are empowered, and that businesses operate in line with global privacy standards,” he noted.
The appointment of Birikujja comes on the heels of the Beera ku Guard campaign recently launched by the National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U) and the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) to mobilise and educate the public for digital and offline safety.
The campaign, a joint initiative by PDPO and NITA-U , is raising public awareness about personal data rights and responsibilities.
The campaign, the first of its kind in Uganda, aims to educate individuals on how to protect their personal information and hold institutions accountable for responsible data handling.
Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, the Executive Director of NITA-U, welcomed the development, noting that the appointment complements the ongoing awareness efforts:
“The Beera ku Guard campaign is already reaching millions of Ugandans with the message that data protection begins with each of us. With Mr. Birikujja now confirmed as director, we have the right leadership in place to ensure that these awareness efforts are matched with strong regulatory enforcement and guidance for both citizens and institutions.”
According to officials, as Uganda deepens its digital transformation, the synergy between PDPO’s strengthened leadership, NITA-U’s nationwide awareness drive, and government policy direction ensures a robust foundation for building a privacy-first society where innovation, compliance, and citizens’ rights thrive side by side.