In a bid to safeguard data security across Ghana’s digital space, the Data Protection Commission (DPC) has announced a major step toward enforcing strict compliance with the country’s data protection laws.
According to the Commission, Section 27(1) of Ghana’s Data Protection Act mandates all data controllers who intend to process personal data to register with the Commission.
The DPC stated that this requirement will guide organisations operating within the digital ecosystem, and that those who fail to comply with the law will face appropriate sanctions.
Speaking at the media launch of the 2026 Data Protection Week in Accra on January 26, 2026, the Executive Director of the DPC, Arnold Kavaarpuo, emphasised that the Commission’s focus is not punishment for its own sake, but ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all Ghanaians are protected in an increasingly digital environment.
Comply with 'Data Protection Act' or face the law – Data Commission to organizations
“The Act also provides consequences for non-compliance. Section 56 prescribes penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for failure to comply with the law. Our objective is not punishment for its own sake, but to ensure that the rights and privileges of all Ghanaians are respected,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the Commission has invested heavily over the past year in modernising its regulatory systems to improve efficiency, transparency, and enforcement capacity.
Beyond education and efficiency, Kavaarpuo revealed that the annual Data Protection Week has been expanded into a month-long national programme aimed at strengthening Ghana’s digital ecosystem.
For his part, the Deputy Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in Ghana’s digital infrastructure.
“As a country, we continue to invest in digital identity systems, mobile money, e-government services, and emerging technologies. These investments can only deliver their full value when citizens trust that their personal data is handled lawfully, securely, and responsibly,” he added.
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