Baker Birikujja, the newly appointed National Personal Data Protection Director.
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has under the Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap. 97 and its Regulations appointed Baker Birikujja as Uganda’s National Personal Data Protection Director.
With over a decade of professional experience in data privacy governance and enforcement, legal drafting and regulatory affairs, cybersecurity, digital transformation among others, Mr. Birikujja brings a unique blend of visionary leadership and practical regulatory expertise to the helm of the Office. In this role, he will be tasked with steering Uganda’s data protection and privacy agenda by providing strategic leadership in advancing the Office’s mandate to safeguard personal data, uphold privacy rights, and promote compliance with Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap 97.
Previously, Mr. Birikujja worked as Acting National Director (PDPO), Manager Compliance and Investigations (PDPO), Manager Licensing and Legal Affairs (PDPO), and Manager Legal Services (NITA-U) during which period he oversaw a two-fold growth in number of registered data controllers and processors; spearheaded the development of PDPO operational frameworks such as compliance toolkits and curriculum; contributed to drafting of the Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Bill and Regulations; and strengthened regulatory cooperation with counterparts across Africa, Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Birikujja expressed gratitude and enthusiasm to lead the Personal Data Protection Office at such a critical moment where safeguarding personal data is not just a regulatory mandate but a national imperative.
“Some of my focus areas will be strengthening regulatory oversight to ensure responsible and secure handling of personal data across all sectors; driving nationwide awareness to educate individuals about their privacy rights and empower them to make informed choices; supporting compliance, accountability, and transparency amongst data controllers and processors; and positioning Uganda as a trusted hub for privacy protection. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to build a privacy-first culture that protects individuals, promotes innovation, and drives sustainable development,” he noted.
This appointment comes at a time when Uganda is deepening its commitment to data protection and privacy, following its recent admission to the Global Privacy Assembly (GPA), a testament to the nation’s growing role on the international data protection stage.
