By Mtisunge Gwedeza
Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), Director General, Daud Suleman has urged courier service providers, media experts and all Malawians to read and understand the Data Protection Act.
Suleman said in Blantyre that courier services are a digital pillar to development during the workshop of courier and postal service providers on Thursday.
“Before we get to a point of 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 said.
Suleman said there was need to clear the line between private and public data so that there is a clear understanding of limits and responsibilities when handling people’s data.
“There must be strict measures when processing data through third parties. For example, delivery parties or tracks must avoid exposing people’s data unlawfully. Mishandling of data leads to breach and penalties; so, let us be very careful,” he said.
Speed’s Courier Manager, Esmie Kathako expressed gratitude for the knowledge she gained from the engagement.
“I have learned to treat customer data with privacy, securing it to ensure confidentiality and protect our customers. This is by avoiding taking customer’s picture or sharing their personal information without explicit consent,” she said.
Courier service providers who were present at the workshop included Sososo Coaches, Swift Capital, Malawi Post Corporation, Speed Courier and City Express Courier.
Data Protection Act was enacted on July 3, 2024 to ensure compliance and handling of data lawfully.
