The Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), Daud Suleman, has called on all Malawians, especially courier service providers and media professionals, to familiarise themselves with the Data Protection Act.
Suleman made the remarks in Blantyre on Thursday during a workshop organised for courier and postal service providers.
He emphasised that courier services form a critical digital pillar for national development and must align with legal frameworks governing data privacy and security.
“Before we get to enforcing our actions on you, let us work together. Read the Act, try to understand it. Even people from the media, journalists; please let’s work together. They are just basic things and encourage other people to do the same,” Suleman urged.
He pointed out the need for a clear distinction between private and public data to ensure proper understanding of data handlers’ responsibilities and limitations.
Suleman stressed that third parties involved in data processing must exercise caution and adhere strictly to the law to avoid unlawful exposure of personal information.
He cited examples such as delivery companies or drivers handling parcels and customer data, warning that data breaches attract serious penalties under the Act.
Speeds Courier Manager, Esmie Kathako, expressed appreciation for the insights gained from the workshop.
She stated that she had learned the importance of safeguarding customer data, including maintaining confidentiality and avoiding the collection or distribution of personal information without consent.
Kathako further emphasised the need to stop practices such as taking photos of customers or sharing their data without permission.
Courier service providers that participated in the workshop included Sososo Coaches, Swift Capital, Malawi Post Corporation, Speed Courier, and City Express Courier.
The Data Protection Act, which came into effect on July 3, 2024, aims to ensure that data is handled lawfully, transparently, and securely in all sectors.
MACRA continues to engage stakeholders in various industries to promote compliance and public awareness of the Act’s requirements.
