Minister Mavetera misunderstood:Zimbabwe Media Watchdog.
"The recent announcement by the Minister of ICT, Hon. T. Mavetera, regarding the Data Protection Act and Statutory Instrument 155 of 2024, has been widely misunderstood by the public.
A local media advocacy organisation has lept to the defence of ICT minister Tatenda Mavetera arguing that she was misunderstood.
In a press statement,Zimbabwe Media Watchdog said minister Mavetera’s prouncements are mearnt to protect data and reduce cybercrime.
“The recent announcement by the Minister of ICT, Hon. T. Mavetera, regarding the Data Protection Act and Statutory Instrument 155 of 2024, has been widely misunderstood by the public.
” These regulations aim to enhance data protection, reduce cybercrime, promote digital literacy, improve national security, create job opportunities, and align Zimbabwe’s digital landscape with international standards,” the organisation opined.
It went on to say the introduction of Data Protection Officers is essential for data intergrity.
“This regulation will significantly improve data protection and privacy for citizens, with Data Protection Officers (DPOs) ensuring responsible handling of personal information in line with the Data Protection Act. DPOs will play a key role in upholding data protection standards by conducting regular audits, developing policies, providing training, and raising awareness,”Zimbabwe Media Watchdog said.
“They will also monitor and report data breaches, ensure transparency in data management, and uphold citizens’ rights to data access, correction, and deletion. This fosters a culture of privacy protection, especially on social media platforms,”.
Among other benefits of the regulations,the organisation reckons that there will be a reduction in cybercrime and cyberbullying “fostering a respectful online community and protecting citizens’ data from unauthorized access and exploitation.”
The Zimbabwe Media Watchdog believes by registering with Potraz this will allow citizens to be empowered digitally.
It adds,
“Zimbabwe’s approach to sanitizing online activities aligns it with global online content regulation standards. This movement echoes international practices in countries such as Singapore, France, Germany, and across the European Union, where laws balance freedom of expression with protections against harmful content and disinformation,”.
Last week,ICT minister Mavetera became a victim of cyberbullying after cooked posts of her warning Whatsapp admins that they were suppose to register and pay US$50 as stipulated by the Data Protection Act and Statutory Instrument 155 of 2022.She has since cleared the air by distancing himself from these manufactured posts.
