Africa-Press – Uganda. Experts have raised alarm over the growing misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and careless sharing of personal data, saying both pose serious risks to privacy, safety and security.
Speaking at the 6th edition of DataFest Africa in Kampala, Pollicy Data Institute Executive Director Neema Iyer said AI advancements come with significant dangers that African countries must urgently address through policy and enforcement.
“Artificial intelligence can translate your language, fix your grammar and it can be used for good but at the same time we should think about the negative impact including some people misusing it,” Iyer said.
“If someone takes your picture and claims you did something wrong, it looks real but it’s false. It’s a problem we need to address as Africa… AI is good but we must be aware of the danger it comes with.”
The Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO) also cautioned Ugandans against sharing personal information without understanding how it will be used.
PDPO Director Baker Birikujja, in his keynote address, said the public must remain alert to prevent fraud and identity theft.
“Before you give out your National ID, phone contact or bank details, first establish why it’s needed and the dangers if accessed by third parties,” he said.
“Those collecting your data must protect it from bad elements.”
Birikujja said offenders face heavy penalties under the Data Protection and Privacy Act, including for incidents involving altered images and deep fakes.
“The law provides punitive measures including fines… the Act punishes anyone who misuses personal data,” he warned.
Local innovators told the conference that high taxation and limited infrastructure continue to stifle growth in Uganda’s tech sector.
School Pal CEO Shane Ssenyonga said many startups struggle to survive because data is hosted abroad and business costs remain high.
“We need more data centres and reliable hosting. Costs eat up the capital even before you make profit and that is not progressive,” he said.
Africa Freedom of Information Centre Executive Director Gilbert Sendugwa said tax administrators lack access to accurate data to assess online business revenues, leading to significant revenue loss.
“Failure to have independent access means businesses hide the right information… we need laws that allow access like in Europe and the USA,” Sendugwa said.
The two-day event has brought together regional experts to discuss data governance, digital safety and ways to secure Africa’s role in a rapidly evolving data economy.
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