The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U), in partnership with the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), launched the 'Beera Ku Guard' campaign today. The initiative aims to raise public awareness of cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy, both online and offline.
Launched at Kampala Serena Hotel, the ‘Beera Ku Guard’ campaign is a six-month, multi-channel awareness effort. It will be rolled out across TV, radio, social media, and digital platforms, as well as through institutional engagements. The campaign will offer practical advice on cyber hygiene and best practices for data protection.
Arnold Mangeni, NITA-U’s Director of Information Security, emphasised that digital transformation must be built on trust, responsibility, and safety. "We cannot talk about a modern, digital Uganda without prioritising safety and trust. Beera Ku Guard calls on every citizen and organisation to protect personal data and use digital platforms responsibly."
The campaign marks a significant step in Uganda's efforts to raise awareness about cybersecurity and data protection. Uganda’s digital transformation has brought over 13 million citizens online. A recent survey by NITA-U revealed that while 48.8% of Ugandans are aware of cybersecurity, only 13.6% understand data protection and privacy.
“While many use strong passwords, few adopt advanced safeguards like two-factor authentication or data encryption. Organisations also have much work to do, as very few have institutionalised cybersecurity and data privacy, making it difficult to comply with laws such as the Data Protection and Privacy Act,” said Mangeni.
He added, “Cybercrime is no longer a distant problem; it is here. The Uganda Police Crime Report 2024 shows a shift in crime from physical spaces to digital platforms. Our financial security, national security, and personal safety all depend on how well we respond.”
The Beera Ku Guard campaign aims to build a culture of digital responsibility. The initiative will use various channels such as digital and traditional media and community forums to reach people in their local languages, using relatable examples. “We will work with all stakeholders to ensure that Beera Ku Guard’s message is not just heard, but lived,” Mangeni concluded.
With millions of Ugandans now engaging online for work, learning, and socialising, the risks tied to digital exposure have become more immediate. The campaign aims to equip citizens with knowledge to safeguard personal information and encourage responsible digital behaviour across all sectors and age groups.
A high-level panel discussion at the event explored the role of government, the private sector, civil society, and citizens in creating a trustworthy data environment. Paul Kakeeto, Manager of Public Relations and Marketing at the PDPO, stated, “Digital transformation must be built on digital trust. Beera Ku Guard will demystify laws, translate rights into relatable language, and inspire Ugandans to take ownership of their online safety.”
'Beera Ku Guard' is a flagship initiative under Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap 2023/24–2027/28 and a key mechanism for implementing the Data Protection and Privacy Act. The campaign aims to reach 70% of the population, engage more than 100,000 citizens, train 500 public and private sector staff, and support the registration of 1,000 data-controlling organisations with the PDPO by 2026.
Mangeni highlighted the urgency of the campaign, stating, "With digital interactions becoming central to life, digital safety must be as instinctive as locking your front door. Beera Ku Guard speaks to this urgency, encouraging Ugandans to think twice before they click, share, or disclose personal data.”
The launch included a digital countdown, setting the stage for an extensive, multi-channel awareness effort. The campaign stresses that national progress in the digital age depends on public trust and individual responsibility. 'Beera Ku Guard' calls on all Ugandans to adopt responsible digital behaviour, reminding everyone that a secure, inclusive digital future relies on the vigilance of every user.
