Maputo, Mozambique, 5 December 2025 (ECA) – The Government of Mozambique validated the bill of the National Data Governance Policy and its Implementation Strategy, marking a transformative step toward harnessing the opportunities of the digital age. This comprehensive framework establishes data governance as a constitutional imperative, ensuring that data is managed as a strategic national asset to promote good governance, sustainable development, and the advancement of human dignity.
The policy sets out clear principles of transparency, accountability, and data sovereignty, and is designed to foster innovation, improve public service delivery, and safeguard privacy and security for all Mozambicans. It aligns with national development goals, continental commitments, and global best practices, integrating international standards such as ISO 27001 and ISO 29100.
This milestone was formalized today during a high-level validation workshop held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Maputo. Organized by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Transformation (MCTD) and the ICT Regulatory Authority - National Institute of Information and Communication Technologies (INTIC), in partnership with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), the European Union (EU), and GIZ, the event brought together government officials, international diplomats, and private sector leaders.
Speaking at the validation workshop's opening, Mr. Mactar Seck, Chief of Emerging and Frontier Technologies, Innovation, and Digital Transformation at ECA, outlined the framework’s scope, “Our objectives are ambitious, to create a robust and integrated data governance framework, harmonize standards across sectors, and promote digital inclusion and equity,”. Mr. Seck added, “Through phased implementation supported by capacity-building and pilot projects, we are positioning Mozambique as a competitive regional hub for data-driven economic activity, committed to protecting citizens’ rights and fostering inclusive prosperity.”
Representing the Minister of Communication and Digital Transformation (MCTD), Prof. Lourino Chemane, Chairman of the Board of Directors, INTIC, confirmed the significance of this participatory process, “Benefiting from an open and inclusive dialogue, the proposed policy is fully aligned with the African Union Data Policy Framework adopted in 2022 and with the country's real needs. This alignment positions Mozambique as a leading player in Africa’s digital integration efforts and ensures that digitalization advances ethically, inclusively and effectively. We are now ready to move from validation to effective implementation, supported by clearly defined responsibilities."
The event featured interventions from key partners supporting Mozambique’s digital journey progress. Ms. Christelle Onana of AUDA-NEPAD positioned the validation within a broader African context, noting that the policy supports a "continental vision for harmonized and trusted data governance." She reaffirmed the agency's commitment to the partnership, stating, "Let us work hand in hand to build a future where data empowers individuals, drives innovation, and fosters prosperity for all."
The German Ambassador to Mozambique, Mr. Ronald Münch highlighted the policy would reinforce data sovereignty and government efficiency, signalling a strong international commitment to effective governance. "Mozambique's National Data Governance Policy is not just a document; it is a strategic milestone that reinforces data sovereignty and government efficiency, establishing data management as an essential resource for national growth.”
Mr. Jesus Laviña, representing the European Union Delegation in Mozambique, focused on the ethical dimensions of the partnership, “The EU adds unique value through its experience in human-centric digitization," he stated, noting that the new framework aligns with values that "prioritize transparency, ethics, responsibility, and citizens' control over their own data.” He added that the EU is proud to support this work through the Data Governance in Africa Initiative.
With this validation, Mozambique not only elevates data governance to a constitutional priority but also asserts itself as a regional reference for responsible digitalization. By aligning with African Union frameworks and securing international support, the country is laying the foundation for a digital future defined by sovereignty, security, and sustainable economic growth.
Issued by:
Communications Section
Economic Commission for Africa
PO Box 3001
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia
Tel: +251 11 551 5826
E-mail: eca-info@un.org