By Samuel Hinga Norman
Freetown, 8th October, 2026 – The Center for Information Privacy, Human-Centered Technology and Ethics Research (CIPHER) has officially been launched to promote greater awareness and understanding of data protection, cybersecurity and digital privacy in Sierra Leone.
The launch happened on 6th October, 2026, at CIPHER’s Office, 49 Main Motor Road, Congo Cross, Freetown, and brought together stakeholders of data protection, information rights, technology, and digital governance.
In Sierra Leone, many citizens remain unaware of the importance of data protection, even as the country continues its transition towards a more digitally driven society. Many people provide their personal information to various digital platforms without fully understanding how their information will be used, stored, or shared. This growing gap in data protection awareness has become a concern as more public and private services move online.
With a mission to conduct independent research on information privacy, data protection law and policy, cybersecurity governance, human-centred technology and ethics, the Chief Executive Officer of CIPHER, Dr. Cyril T. Foday-Kallie, said the organisation was established to generate evidence on cases of poor or mismanaged data. According to him, such research would help provide evidence that could support the government in developing laws and policies aimed at protecting citizens’ personal information.
Speaking in an interview, Dr. Foday-Kallie said: “CIPHER will bring the law about the rights of the data subject, how to remain adequate as a nation and also the responsibilities of the controllers of data processors…”
He also outlined CIPHER’s approach to promoting data privacy: “We will undertake research; we will probe awareness and also training to reach out to victims.” He explained that CIPHER would investigate issues surrounding poor data management and produce credible research that could contribute to stronger data protection policies and practices.
The organisation also intends to educate citizens about their rights as data subjects, while helping organisations that collect and process personal information to understand their responsibilities. Through research, awareness campaigns and training programmes, CIPHER hopes to contribute to a safer and more responsible digital environment in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the launch, CIPHER’s Programme Outreach and Communications Manager, Samuel Young, described CIPHER’s establishment as a “historic” and important development for Sierra Leone’s growing digital space. He expressed optimism about its potential contribution to the country’s digital transformation. He stated that CIPHER’s existence is intended to change how data is used while contributing to the protection and security of citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner of the Right to Access Information Commission Sierra Leone (RAIC-SL), the Public Information and Communications Officer, Amara Thronka, said CIPHER’s work aligns with the commission’s objectives. He described data protection as a fundamental part of effective data governance in the country. “CIPHER’s work is very, very integral because data protection is what we consider to be the baby of data governance or data dispensation in Sierra Leone,” Thronka said. He described CIPHER as an organisation with a significant role to play in the country’s digital development and expressed hope for its future.
The Chairman of CIPHER’s Board of Directors, Dr. Amara Jambai, also highlighted the importance of research, data protection and cybersecurity to the organisation’s work. He said one of CIPHER’s key objectives is to use research and evidence to influence policy and strengthen legal frameworks. “The organization is here to guide policy into Law…” he said. Dr. Jambai further emphasised the importance of credible research, noting that CIPHER intends to establish itself as a reliable source of evidence and information on data protection and related digital issues.
The launch of CIPHER comes at a time when Sierra Leone is experiencing increased digitalisation across different sectors, with citizens increasingly relying on digital platforms and online services. This expansion has also created a greater need for public awareness about how personal information is collected, processed, stored and protected.
The establishment of CIPHER, therefore, marks a significant step towards strengthening data protection and digital privacy in Sierra Leone. With its focus on independent research, public awareness, training and policy development, the organisation aims to help citizens better understand their rights, while encouraging institutions to handle personal information responsibly.
Stakeholders at the launch expressed optimism that CIPHER’s work would contribute to stronger data governance, improved policies, and a safer digital environment for citizens as Sierra Leone continues its digital transformation.
