MOMBASA, Kenya — November 27th — In a bid to raise awareness about data protection and enhance media engagement, the ODPC participated in the 8th Annual Editors Convention 2025, convened by the Kenya Editors Guild under the theme “Truth, Trust, and Technology: The Role of Journalism in the Digital Era.”

The event not only provided an opportunity for media engagement but also allowed the ODPC to emphasize the importance of fostering a culture of data protection in newsroom practices.

During the convention, Salma Ramadhan, Head of the Mombasa Regional Office at ODPC, represented the Data Commissioner in a panel discussion titled “Guardians or Gatekeepers? Media Regulation the East African Way.”

 She emphasized that while journalists have a lawful basis to perform their duties, they must adhere to principles of accuracy, data minimization, and security to protect the rights of data subjects.

“We are guardians of privacy rights through advisories and compliance, not censors. The media can report freely within clear, explicit limits that protect both the public’s right to know and individuals’ right to privacy,” she stated.

The ODPC team engaged with editors and media practitioners to raise awareness about data protection and its critical role in journalism. These initiatives reflect the ODPC’s commitment to creating a safer digital ecosystem and promoting responsible journalism across Kenya.

On the sidelines of the 8th Kenya Editors Annual Convention 2025, the Office had the honor of hosting Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, EGH at its booth. His visit underscored the Government’s commitment to fostering a culture of data protection within the media sector.

This interaction reflects ODPC’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with the media in promoting ethical reporting while safeguarding the privacy and rights of individuals.