By Chisomo Phiri
Malawians who publish other people’s images and videos online without permission will soon face action, as the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) moves to enforce the country’s data protection law following a rise in complaints over violations of personal information.
Head of Data Protection at MACRA, Daniel Chiwoni, disclosed this on Monday in Lilongwe during the opening of a four-day training of trainers on the 2024 Data Protection Act.
Daniel Chiwoni
Chiwoni said MACRA has started receiving complaints from members of the public over violations of their personal data, with most of the cases involving the unauthorised publication of images and videos online.
He said the regulator is currently investigating the complaints and will soon take action against individuals and institutions found to have violated the law.
Chiwoni added that MACRA is also working to popularise the Data Protection Act among the public to promote understanding of its provisions and support effective implementation.
Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Germany, Susanne Meltl, said effective implementation of the Data Protection Act is critical to Malawi’s advancement in the digital economy.
Meltl said the law presents both opportunities and responsibilities for the country as it continues with its digital transformation.
One of the participants, Sycamore Consults Managing Director Audrey Mwala, commended the initiative, saying Malawi’s transition towards a digital economy is already being felt across various sectors.
Mwala stressed the importance of citizens and institutions understanding the provisions of the 2024 Data Protection Act as the country continues to embrace digital technologies.
