Patricia Adusei-Poku outlines major data protection projects advancing Ghana’s digital safety
Patricia Adusei-Poku, one of the world’s most respected data protection authorities and the Executive Director of Ghana’s Data Protection Commission (DPC), has outlined a series of major initiatives designed to strengthen the nation’s digital privacy systems. At a recent stakeholder engagement, she detailed ongoing reforms aimed at modernising regulatory frameworks, improving organisational compliance, and empowering citizens to understand and protect their personal data.
According to Adusei-Poku, rapid digitalisation in Ghana has brought immense opportunities but equally significant risks. With more government services, financial transactions and daily communications moving online, threats such as data breaches, identity theft and cyber fraud have become increasingly sophisticated. She noted that robust data protection policies are now essential for national security, business growth and public trust.
One of the key projects she highlighted is the nationwide compliance audit currently underway. This audit assesses how public and private institutions collect, process and store the personal information of Ghanaians. The aim is to identify vulnerabilities and ensure organisations adhere to the Data Protection Act. Adusei-Poku explained that institutions failing to comply will face mandatory enforcement actions, including fines and operational restrictions.
She also revealed an upcoming initiative to train thousands of Data Protection Officers (DPOs) across the country. These officers will be responsible for monitoring internal compliance, guiding companies on lawful data processing, and acting as liaisons with the DPC. Adusei-Poku stressed that without skilled personnel inside organisations, meaningful data protection cannot be achieved.
Another flagship project involves the expansion of Ghana’s digital rights awareness campaign. Through media outreach, community programmes, and targeted education for youth and vulnerable populations, the Commission aims to increase citizens’ understanding of how their personal data is used and how they can safely engage online. Adusei-Poku described this as “empowering the public to take ownership of their digital footprint.”
Beyond domestic reforms, she emphasised Ghana’s growing role in global data protection conversations. Ghana is increasingly being recognised for leadership on the African continent, contributing to international frameworks on data governance, cross-border data flows, and digital trade. Adusei-Poku said these partnerships ensure Ghana remains aligned with global standards, positioning the country as a trusted digital economy.
Industry players who attended the briefing applauded her efforts, noting that these reforms are essential for attracting foreign investment, especially in fintech and digital services. They added that international companies are now more likely to invest in countries with strong data protection frameworks and regulatory certainty.
As cyber threats evolve, Adusei-Poku reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to building a secure, transparent and rights-driven digital ecosystem. Her outlined projects signal a decisive push toward safeguarding the personal data of millions of Ghanaians while strengthening the country’s global digital competitiveness.
