By:
Kanto Kai Okanta
The
Ethiopian Communications Authority (ECA) has conducted a high-level awareness
workshop for members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, focusing on
telecommunications regulation, postal services oversight, and personal data
protection.
The
workshop was officially opened by Deputy Speaker Hon. Lomi Bedo, who
underscored Ethiopia’s recent telecommunications sector reforms, including
market liberalisation, increased private sector participation, and the
establishment of ECA as an independent regulator.
She
noted that personal data protection and public trust are central to the
successful implementation of the Digital Ethiopia 2030 Strategy, calling for
strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to build a secure and inclusive
digital ecosystem.
Hon.
Ewunetu Alene, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democracy Affairs,
commended the Authority’s progress in advancing regulatory reforms and
reaffirmed Parliament’s support for strengthening its mandate in support of
national digital transformation efforts.
ECA
Director General Eng. Balcha Reba presented an overview of the Authority’s
mandate and achievements, including licensing and regulatory oversight,
spectrum management, numbering administration, quality of service monitoring,
consumer protection, universal access, and digital inclusion initiatives.
Deputy
Director General Million Hailemichael outlined progress in implementing the
Personal Data Protection Proclamation No. 1321/2024, including the
establishment of institutional frameworks, ongoing awareness campaigns, and the
rollout of registration and licensing services for data controllers and
processors.
He
further highlighted the Authority’s digital transformation initiatives,
including the Integrated Regulatory Information System (IRIS) and the E-Office
system, which aim to modernise service delivery and support a paperless
regulatory environment.
The
workshop also provided lawmakers with insights into the Authority’s ongoing
priorities and challenges, while reinforcing dialogue on strengthening
Ethiopia’s regulatory framework for a secure, inclusive, and resilient digital
ecosystem.
