Patricia Adusei-Poku, former Executive Director of the Ghana Data Protection Commission has urged business leaders to stop treating data protection as solely a technical or Information Technology (IT) issue but recognise it a core organisational responsibility.

She made this call during a recent interview with GhanaWeb.

Patricia Adusei-Poku stressed that understanding the purpose of data protection is essential for both the business and its clients.

She explained that, properly managed, data protection can build trust with clients by safeguarding personal information, enhance brand reputation and credibility in a competitive market and also reduce operational and legal risks from data breaches or non-compliance.

“Why data protection? This is the big question on the minds of executives, senior people, and ultimate decision-makers,” Adusei noted.

“They (data controllers) need to understand that data protection is not just legal compliance, it directly impacts their business operations, reputation, and relationships with clients.

“So instead of seeing it as the proverbial empty glass. We want to see it as a healthy glass, and look at the positive side of it, that is, the benefits to business, and then try and exploit that to favour the business. Look at the differentiating factor for you, the implications on your business that can be positive, the impact on your bottom line, meaning that what you can do to improve your profit,” she added.

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She urged business leaders to rethink their approach to data protection and see it as a strategic responsibility that can strengthen trust, reputation, and long-term business growth.

Her comments come at a time when the Data Protection Commission (DPC), in partnership with the Ghana Association of Privacy Professionals (GAPP), on January 28, 2026, launched a month-long national programme aimed at strengthening privacy awareness, driving compliance, and building trust in Ghana’s digital economy.

The initiative is a coordinated national effort to promote responsible data use as digital services continue to expand across the country.

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Held under the theme, “Your Data, Your Identity: Building Trust in Ghana’s Digital Future,” Data Protection Week 2026 highlighted the growing link between personal data and individual identity in an era of rapid digitalisation.

JKB/VPO


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