THE Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) has announced a nationwide training program for Data Protection Officers from public and private institutions, just days after a wave of social media account breaches raised alarms over the safety of personal information online.

Speaking at a press briefing in Dodoma today, the Acting Director General of the Commission, Eng Stephen Wangwe, said the training will begin next month and is aimed at equipping officers with the skills and tools necessary to safeguard sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access to digital platforms.

“The sessions will offer practical guidance on how to manage and protect data systems, especially for those directly handling or overseeing digital platforms,” said Wangwe. “This is part of our commitment to building a culture of accountability and resilience in data protection across the country.”

He emphasized that the initiative comes at a critical time, following recent incidents where social media accounts belonging to institutions were hacked—underscoring the urgent need for robust digital defenses.

“Such incidents are not just technical breaches; they are also violations of personal data rights. In many cases, identity theft is involved, which falls squarely within the mandate of the PDPC,” he noted.

Wangwe added that the training will also promote the broader goal of fostering respect for privacy rights and elevating Tanzania’s standing in digital civility and data governance.

“We are entering a world where the protection of individual privacy and the security of personal data are fundamental,” he said. “Our dignity lies in how securely our information is stored and managed.”

According to the Commission, the training will cover risk assessment, secure data handling practices, cyber hygiene, and methods for detecting and responding to data breaches. Institutions will be expected to designate responsible officers to attend and cascade the knowledge within their organizations.