Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Elizabeth Kamurungi
Published on 2024-02-01 09:59:55
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr Thomas Tayebwa, recently emphasized the need to update laws on data and privacy in response to the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the potential threats associated with it. Speaking at the 2024 Data Privacy Day Conference in Kampala, Mr Tayebwa highlighted that current laws are inadequate in addressing the massive capacity of AI to harvest, process, and exploit data.
The rapid progress of AI has rendered existing legislation ineffective, prompting the call for an overhaul to ensure that laws keep pace with technological advancements. Notably, AI has the capability to perform tasks that traditionally required human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and translation between languages.
While AI offers numerous advantages and convenience, it also raises ethical concerns, including the possibility of structural biases. In response to these concerns, Uganda enacted the Data Protection and Privacy Act in 2019 to regulate the collection and processing of personal information with the aim of safeguarding individuals’ privacy.
Mr Tayebwa stressed the importance of incorporating oversight mechanisms for AI technologies within the existing legislation. He urged the Personal Data Protection Office to analyze the current law and make recommendations to the Minister for ICT and National Guidance for amendments that align with the technologies of the fourth industrial revolution. Additionally, Mr Tayebwa suggested granting the minister more regulatory powers to address urgent matters without having to go through Parliament.
Furthermore, Mr Tayebwa emphasized the need to address digital threats, including misinformation and commercial espionage, to protect Ugandans from potential harm. This sentiment was echoed by the Minister for ICT, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, who assured Ugandans that personal data collected by the government would be protected and used only for official and beneficial purposes.
Dr. Baryomunsi also highlighted the efforts undertaken by the ministry to address the duplication of biodata by providing funds to the National Information Registration Authority (NIRA) to carry out mass registration of Ugandans. The plan includes new registration to issue new or updated National Identification Cards slated to commence later in the year, with NIRA procuring necessary kits and devices for the exercise.
In conclusion, the urgency and importance of updating legislation to accommodate the rapid advancements in AI and safeguarding personal data and privacy cannot be overstated. As AI continues to shape the technological landscape, it is crucial to ensure that laws effectively regulate its use and mitigate potential risks to individuals and society at large. The reassurances from government officials to prioritize data protection and address digital threats are significant steps in the right direction.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
