Policy Updates

Kenya Undertakes Stakeholder Consultations on Accession to the Malabo Convention

By Veronica Shiroya

Kenya is taking a bold step toward shaping the future of its digital landscape. Following Cabinet approval, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has officially rolled out nationwide consultations on Kenya’s planned accession to the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, better known as the Malabo Convention.

A continental digital pact

The Malabo Convention is more than just a treaty, it is Africa’s digital constitution. Adopted in 2014 by the African Union, it provides a comprehensive framework on cybersecurity, electronic transactions and personal data protection. Its goal is to harmonize laws across the continent and establish a shared vision of a secure, trustworthy and inclusive digital future.

Momentum around the Convention is steadily building. So far, 16 African countries have ratified it, joining forces to tackle cybercrime, boost online trust, and ensure the rights of individuals are safeguarded in the digital era. Kenya’s move to accede would make it part of this growing alliance, signaling its readiness to align national policies with a continental framework that protects citizens while fostering innovation.

ODPC leads the conversation

At the heart of this journey is the ODPC, the statutory body mandated to regulate the processing of personal data and safeguard the right to privacy under the Data Protection Act, 2019. By spearheading consultations, the ODPC is ensuring that this critical decision reflects the voices and priorities of Kenyans.

“Digital trust is built on inclusivity,” the ODPC emphasized in its call for participation, underscoring that stakeholders from all walks of life must be part of shaping Kenya’s digital future.

Call for public participation

To promote inclusivity, ODPC has scheduled virtual consultative forums bringing together:

  1. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs)

  2. County Governments

  3. Private sector leaders and innovators

  4. Academia and researchers

  5. Civil society organizations

  6. Professional associations

  7. The media

  8. And the general public

Beyond these forums, Kenyans are invited to share their views in writing through:

  • Email: malabo-convention@odpc.go.ke

  • Letters: Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, P.O. Box 30920-00100, Nairobi

  • Hand-delivery: 13th Floor, Britam Towers, Hospital Hill Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi

The deadline for submissions is October 6, 2025 (COB).

Shaping the digital future together

Kenya’s accession to the Malabo Convention is more than a formality, it is a step toward regional solidarity in digital governance. By joining the 16 countries that have already ratified the treaty, Kenya has an opportunity to influence Africa’s digital policy landscape while bolstering protections for its own citizens.

From entrepreneurs leveraging e-commerce platforms, to students engaged in e-learning, to everyday Kenyans relying on mobile money, the Convention’s principles have the potential to impact lives across all sectors.

As consultations continue, this is a chance for Kenyans to help write a digital future anchored in trust, security and innovation, a future that reflects both national aspirations and Africa’s collective vision.