The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U), in partnership with the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), has launched a nationwide public awareness campaign named ‘Beera Ku Guard’ to enhance cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy across the country.
The campaign, (in the local Luganda language) translates to “stay guarded, and on the lookout,” was unveiled at a media event at Serena Hotel, Kampala. The ‘Beera Ku Guard’ campaign aims to increase national consciousness around safe digital practices, both online and offline, as Uganda undergoes rapid digital transformation.
The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) under the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is Uganda government’s agency mandated to coordinate and promote IT development in the country, leading e-government initiatives for efficient service delivery. The Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) is an independent office under NITA-U, that oversees the implementation and enforcement of the country’s data protection law (Data Protection and Privacy Act (Cap. 97).
According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025 report, the global cybersecurity landscape in 2025 is projected to remain highly volatile and complex, driven by geopolitical tensions, rapid technological advancements especially in artificial intelligence, and persistent vulnerabilities in supply chains and critical infrastructure.
The report further noted that in 2024, 72 per cent of organizations surveyed worldwide reported an increase in cyber risks with ransomware, phishing, and AI-enabled attacks as top worries. This trend has continued unabated, with over 3,000 data breaches recorded globally in 2024 and early 2025 data, suggesting a 13 per cent rise in distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks compared to the previous year.
It further notes that the economic impact of cyber insecurity is staggering. The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach US$271.90 billion by 2029, reflecting a 7.58 per cent annual growth rate, while cybercrime costs are estimated to exceed US$12.5 billion annually.
According to the Gartner reports the public sectors are hit hardest, with 38 per cent reporting insufficient resilience. State-sponsored actors from some countries dominate espionage efforts, while cybercriminals leverage generative AI for scalable attacks.
Uganda has had its own share of the costs of cybersecurity. With over 13 million Ugandans online, the ‘Beera Ku Guard’ campaign addresses critical gaps in cybersecurity awareness and data protection. Recent data reveals that while 48.8 per cent of Ugandans are aware of cybersecurity, only 13.6 per cent understand data protection and privacy concepts, and fewer than 28.4 per cent of government agencies have designated data protection officers.
Arnold Mangeni, Director of Information Security at NITA-U, representing Dr. Hatib Mugasa the agency’s executive director at the launch, emphasized the importance of trust and safety in digital development. “We cannot talk about a modern, digital Uganda without putting safety and trust at the center. ‘Beera Ku Guard’ is a call to action for every citizen, public servant, and private actor to safeguard personal data and use digital platforms responsibly,” Mangeni said.
He underscored the campaign’s role in supporting Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap 2023/24–2027/28 and the Data Protection and Privacy Act (Cap. 97).
A Multi-Channel Effort to Reach Millions
Launched with a digital countdown, the campaign will roll out over the next six months through mass media, digital platforms, and institutional engagements. It aims to reach 70% of Uganda’s population, directly engage 100,000 citizens, and support the registration of 1,000 data-controlling organizations with the PDPO by 2026.
A high-level panel discussion themed “Building Public Trust in Uganda’s Data Systems: Safeguarding Information Online and Offline” highlighted the roles of government, private sector, civil society, and citizens in fostering a secure data environment. Paul Kakeeto, Manager of Public Relations and Marketing at PDPO, noted, “Digital transformation must be anchored in digital trust. This campaign will demystify laws, translate rights into relatable language, and inspire every Ugandan to own their online safety.”
Empowering Ugandans for a Secure Digital Future
The “Beera Ku Guard” campaign encourages Ugandans to adopt responsible digital behavior, such as double-checking before clicking, sharing, or disclosing personal data. Mangeni likened digital safety to “locking your front door,” stressing its urgency as digital interactions become central to daily life. The campaign promotes individual accountability and public trust, aligning with Uganda’s vision for an inclusive and secure digital ecosystem.
The Infrastructure Magazine prides in providing Depth, Context, Insight, Perspective to industry issues. Need more information on this story? Is there any issue that you want to give depth, insight, context, perspective to? Contact our partnerships team: [email protected] or WhatsApp: +256 752 665 775
