Freetown, July 9, 2026 – The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has hosted a one-day training session for journalists and civil society organisations in Sierra Leone, focusing on digital rights, data protection, and privacy.
Held at the CHRDI Conference Room on Wilkinson Road, the training brought together media practitioners and civil society actors to strengthen their capacity to operate safely in digital spaces, uphold privacy rights, and responsibly handle personal data.
Facilitators led discussions on online safety, threats to digital rights, ethical data collection, and the implications of Sierra Leone’s draft Privacy and Personal Data Protection Bill. Participants were also introduced to practical tools for securing communications, protecting confidential sources, and reducing exposure to online harassment, surveillance, and data breaches.
Speaking at the opening, CHRDI’s Chief Executive underscored the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding fundamental rights in an increasingly digital world. “Journalists and civil society actors are guardians of public information. As more of our work moves online, we must understand our digital rights and protect the privacy of citizens and sources,” he said.
The initiative forms part of CHRDI’s broader advocacy on privacy and data protection. In partnership with the White House/Fulbright Specialist, the organisation is developing a Privacy and Personal Data Protection Advocacy Toolkit for journalists and CSOs, as well as an oversight committee toolkit for Members of Parliament.
Participants described the training as timely, noting the growing reliance on digital platforms for information sharing, civic action, and public engagement. CHRDI reaffirmed its commitment to working with the media, government, and civil society to support the speedy passage and effective implementation of data protection laws in Sierra Leone.