EAC readies to accelerate regional digital integration with cross-border data flow framework
The East African Community (EAC) has taken a significant step towards harmonising data governance frameworks across its eight Partner States. This comes after the EAC Secretariat convened a Regional Workshop for Data Experts on Cross-Border Data Flows.
This initiative forms part of the Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EARDIP) Data Market Development and Integration objective to establish a seamless and secure environment for cross-border data flows across the region.
“This workshop reaffirms our steadfast dedication to positioning the EAC as a leader in digital transformation and regional integration,” stated EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba while officiating the workshop.
“Through collaboration and the creation of a harmonised framework for cross-border data flows, we are laying the foundation for a digitally interconnected region that fosters innovation, boosts trade, and elevates our global competitiveness,” she emphasised.
The workshop provided a platform for regional policymakers to deliberate and reach consensus on the modalities for developing a region cross-border data exchange mechanism. This mechanism expected to establish a unified approach to data governance, enabling secure, ethical and responsible data sharing across borders.
Speaking during the workshop, World Bank Senior Digital Development Specialist, Ms. Cecilia Paradi-Guilford, underscored the critical role of data sharing in fostering trust and boosting the digital economy. “EARDIP seeks to create an integrated digital market across Eastern Africa, boosting connectivity, data flows and digital trade.
This workshop is a vital step in aligning Partner States around key principles and mechanisms that will guide the establishment of a regional framework for cross-border data flow,” she noted.
The workshop deliberated on the national data protection landscape in the region, revealing significant disparities in legislation and institutional capacities among the Partner States. It was noted that among the eight Partner States, South Sudan was yet to enact a national data protection law. The workshop further noted that only five countries, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Uganda and Tanzania had established dedicated data protection authorities.
These gaps further underscored the urgency for a harmonised legal framework to address the inconsistencies and bolster regional data governance. The regional experts called for harmonisation of legal framework noting it a critical enabler for fostering trust, personal data protection, and unlocking economic opportunities across the region.
In aligning with international best practices such as the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) mechanisms, the workshop noted the importance of aligning Partner States’ diverse data protection regimes with global standards while tailoring solutions to the region’s unique context.
As critical stakeholders in the development of a digital economy, private sector representatives highlighted the adverse effects of fragmented legal frameworks and data localisation requirements, which hinder investment and innovation. However, the private sector also recognised the transformative potential of harmonised regulations, which would facilitate seamless cross-border operations, enhance data security, and attract greater investment in the region’s digital economy.
In its closing, the workshop resolved to prioritise the establishment of a Technical Working Group (TWG) that will comprise representatives from Data Protection Authorities, Attorney Genera…
Simon Peter Owaka, Senior Public Relations Officer,
Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department, at the EAC Secretariat in Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255 768 552087 Email: sowaka@eachq.org
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