Cabinet Backs New Data Protection Policy and Legislative Reforms

Cabinet has approved a National Data Protection Policy alongside sweeping legislative reforms to merge data protection and access to information under a single authority, marking a significant shift in Sierra Leone’s digital governance framework.

The decision was announced on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, during the Government’s weekly press briefing by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah.

He said the reforms represent a major step toward strengthening citizens’ privacy rights while improving transparency in the management of personal and institutional data.

The policy was developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation.

As part of the reforms, Cabinet approved the repeal of the Right to Access Information Commission Act and the introduction of a new Data Protection and Right to Access Information Act.

The proposed law will establish a single authority responsible for both access to public information and the protection of personal data.

The new framework also expands the mandate of the existing Right to Access Information Commission, strengthening its oversight, compliance, and enforcement functions across both public and private sector data use.

Cabinet has further instructed the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, in collaboration with the Attorney-General’s Office, to finalise the draft Bill and submit it to Parliament, while also coordinating national implementation.

Describing the reform as a turning point, Minister Bah said it ushers in a new era of stronger privacy protection and accountability in data management.

He added that the framework will introduce clearer standards for how personal data is collected, stored, and processed, aimed at strengthening public trust in both government and private sector systems.

The National Data Protection Policy is expected to align Sierra Leone with international standards on digital rights, cybersecurity, and information management.

The reforms follow years of consultations with civil society organisations, the media, security institutions, and development partners.

Once enacted, the new authority will oversee both access to information requests and enforcement of data protection standards nationwide under a unified system.