Burkina Faso: Personal data protection at the heart of digitalization

The Commission on Information Technology and Freedoms (CIL) launched the 3rd edition of the National Data Protection Day (JNPDP) on Tuesday, March 25. This event, taking place from March 25 to 28, 2025, is themed: “Personal Data Protection in the Age of Digitalizing Administrative Procedures: What Contribution from Digital Actors?”

Under the patronage of Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, President of the Transition Legislative Assembly (ALT), and the sponsorship of Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, Minister of Digital Transition, this event is presided over by Dr. Halguièta Nassa/Trawina, President of the CIL.

In her speech, Minister Aminata Zerbo/Sabane highlighted the crucial importance of securing personal data, particularly as the Burkinabe administration moves towards dematerialization. She reminded that while digital transformation allows for more efficient and accessible public services, it should not come at the expense of protecting citizens’ personal information.

She also highlighted the progress made since the national discussions on dematerialization in 2023, including:

The digitization of more than 120 administrative procedures, 46 of which are already accessible to the public;
The secure hosting of state platforms on local servers;
The implementation of security tests to identify and fix vulnerabilities;
The adoption of a strengthened legal framework governing the operation of digital platforms.

For her part, Dr. Halguièta Nassa/Trawina reminded that Law No. 01 of March 30, 2021, governing the protection of personal data, requires digital actors to ensure the security and confidentiality of information. She drew attention to the dangers of irresponsible use of digital tools, particularly the spread of false information and the abusive exploitation of citizens’ data.

To raise awareness among the public and digital professionals, several activities are planned during this 3rd edition:

A public conference with domain experts;
An open day to inform and raise awareness among citizens;
Inspection missions to check the compliance of digital structures;
“DPO’s Days” dedicated to data protection officers;
A Hackathon and a slam contest organized to involve the youth.

Thus, these days aim to strengthen the culture of cybersecurity and personal data protection by encouraging all digital actors to play their role in ensuring a safe and reliable digital environment in Burkina Faso.