Bugesera, October 16, 2024 — The Internet Society Rwanda Chapter (ISOC Rwanda) marked Global Encryption Day 2024 with an engaging event at G.S Nyirarukobwa in the Ntarama sector of Bugesera District.

The event, themed “Understanding the Role of Encryption in Protecting Personal Data and Securing Online Communications,” aimed to raise awareness among teachers, students, and parents about the importance of encryption in securing personal data and maintaining online privacy.

Global Encryption Day is celebrated annually to promote the use of strong encryption practices worldwide. It unites civil society organizations, businesses, technologists, and internet users to advocate for stronger data protection mechanisms, which are essential in today’s increasingly digital world.

ISOC Rwanda’s 2024 event emphasized how encryption can protect individuals’ personal information from cyberattacks and unauthorized access.

Jules Nizeyimana, Vice Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, led discussions on the importance of encryption and its role in data protection. “Encryption is the process of scrambling or enciphering data so it can be read only by someone with the means to return it to its original state.,” he explained. Nizeyimana highlighted common types of encryption, such as end-to-end encryption used by popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp, which ensures that only the intended recipients can view messages.

Nizeyimana encouraged participants to activate two-step verification on their messaging apps, including WhatsApp, to add an extra layer of protection. He explained that data security relies on three core principles: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Ensuring these elements makes personal data more secure and accessible only to authorised users.

The event also featured practical insights from Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, who stressed the importance of being mindful of how personal data, such as photos and messages, are stored and shared.

“We all need to review how we use online platforms and take full responsibility for protecting our data and communications,” Mfitumukiza advised. He reminded the community that encryption is not just a tool for professionals but for everyone .

Encryption empowers people to have more control over their data in the digital world, ensuring that their personal information stays safe and that their conversations stay private. Encryption is about more than security, it is about trust, freedom, and shaping the future we want.

Several parents at the event shared their thoughts on the new information they learned about data security. Asterie Kayitesi, a parent from G.S Nyirarukobwa, admitted that before the session, she had little understanding of how online platforms work. “I didn’t know that someone could access my account just by using the information I provide when installing apps like WhatsApp. Now, I feel more confident in protecting my information,” she said.