A major argument for advocating for a participatory approach in developing Africa’s data policies and systems stems from the underlying drivers and principles guiding data governance. These principles cut across several themes such as human and digital rights protection, transparency and accountability, that are geared towards engendering greater confidence in the data ecosystem, for more purposeful development outcomes. In view of this, it is impossible for policy makers to effectively protect citizens’ data rights without extensive collaboration with, and input from the people being protected. But how can the public be active in data policy processes and systems or hold responsible parties accountable if they are not fully aware of their rights and responsibilities?
This report was written by Tomiwa Ilori