The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has officially announced the appointment of Baker Birikujja as Uganda’s new National Personal Data Protection Director.
Birikujja’s appointment falls under the Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap. 97, and marks a strategic move by the government to strengthen the country’s data governance framework in the face of rapid digital transformation.
Bringing over a decade of experience in data privacy, regulatory affairs, cybersecurity, and legal drafting, Birikujja has previously served in key leadership roles at both the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) and the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U).
He is widely credited with advancing Uganda’s privacy framework, overseeing a two-fold increase in the registration of data controllers and processors, developing compliance toolkits, and contributing to the drafting of the Data Protection and Privacy Act and its accompanying regulations.
Speaking after his appointment, Mr. Birikujja pledged to focus on regulatory enforcement, citizen education, and institutional accountability.
“I also envision positioning Uganda as a trusted hub for data protection on the continent, ensuring that privacy and innovation go hand in hand,” he said.
Minister Baryomunsi described the appointment as both timely and strategic, given the ongoing expansion of Uganda’s digital ecosystem.
“We are at a point where digital transformation is accelerating across all sectors, and the protection of personal data must remain central,” Baryomunsi noted.
“Mr. Birikujja’s appointment provides strong leadership to ensure that Uganda’s citizens are empowered, and that businesses operate in line with global privacy standards.”
The announcement comes shortly after the launch of the “Beera ku Guard” public awareness campaign — a joint initiative by NITA-U and the PDPO — aimed at promoting digital and offline data safety among Ugandans.
The campaign, the first of its kind in Uganda, seeks to educate individuals about their personal data rights, encourage responsible data handling, and hold institutions accountable.
Welcoming the appointment, Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, Executive Director of NITA-U, said Birikujja’s leadership will significantly boost ongoing national efforts.
“The Beera ku Guard campaign is already reaching millions of Ugandans with the message that data protection begins with each of us,” Dr. Mugasa said.
“With Mr. Birikujja now confirmed as director, we have the right leadership in place to ensure that these awareness efforts are matched with strong regulatory enforcement and guidance for both citizens and institutions.”
Government officials believe that Birikujja’s appointment, combined with increased public education and digital policy reforms, will help cement Uganda’s position as a regional leader in data protection.
As Uganda continues to deepen its digital transformation agenda, the alignment between policy direction, public engagement, and regulatory oversight sets the foundation for a privacy-first society where citizens’ rights, compliance, and innovation are central pillars.
