29 Jul 2025

Minister for State President Mr Moeti Mohwasa provided an update on the development of the Information and Data Protection Commission (IDPC), emphasising ongoing efforts to establish a permanent operational base for the body.

Mr Mohwasa stated that the official address and contact details of the IDPC will be made available to the public once the commission secures its permanent premises. 

He explained that, owing to the sensitive nature of the commission’s work, the ministry has been scouting for a secure and suitable location to host the body.

In addition, the Minister revealed that a Public Relations Officer has been identified and deployed to support the commission’s operations. “

This officer will facilitate the establishment of a dedicated website and channels for public engagement once in place.”

The IDPC was established in 2022 to oversee the enforcement of key legislative frameworks, including the Data Protection Act and the Access to Information Act. Mr. Mohwasa highlighted that the Data Protection Act was reviewed in 2025, with its implementation starting on January 14, 2025.

Regarding staffing, the Minister confirmed that the ministry is working to fill several key headship positions, including Deputy Commissioner, Director of Data Protection Compliance, and Director of Complaints Investigation. 

These appointments, he said were currently underway, following approval by the Job Evaluation Upper Panel.

Mr Mohwasa also stated that the ministry has further facilitated the development of the IDPC functional structure and the corresponding job profiles, which were submitted to the Directorate of Public Service Management for assessment and grading for approval by the job Evaluation Upper Panel.

“The commissioner has currently employed three contract officers whilst the ministry awaits approval of the structure and job profiles to fully operationalise the IDPC”, he said. Minister Mohwasa was responding to the MP for Kgatleng Central, Mr Mpho Morolong who asked the minister why that contact details and resources of the IDPC are not yet publicly availed despite the Act being in effect.

He also asked when the public could fully access the commission including a functional website, official contact details and public engagements channels. Mr Morolong also wanted the minister to state the measure in place to ensure that the IDPC is operational and fulfilling its mandate. ENDS