Imagine a vault that holds every detail about your life, from finances to communications. Now imagine that vault isn’t in your own country but is controlled by companies and governments far away, with little accountability or oversight. This is the situation many African nations face as companies store their citizens’ data overseas, mostly in the U.S. or Europe. Multinational technology giants like Google, Meta (formerly Facebook), Amazon, and Microsoft, along with telecommunications and financial institutions, continue to house African data abroad, leaving crucial questions about data privacy, security, and sovereignty unanswered.

Risks of Foreign Data Storage: Privacy Violations and Security Breaches

There are cases worldwide where foreign data storage has led to data breaches, surveillance, and control issues. For instance, in the European Union, the Schrems II case highlighted the risks of EU citizens’ data being accessible to U.S. authorities, prompting new data localization measures. Africa could face similar risks, especially as companies in the U.S. are often required by law to provide data to their government when requested, even if the data pertains to foreign citizens. In the African context, access to sensitive information by foreign entities could risk compromising citizens’ privacy and national security.

The Intersection of Tech and Economy

Data localization, while beneficial, comes with challenges. For instance, many African countries lack the infrastructure—such as data centers and reliable internet—needed to support local data storage, which foreign cloud providers already offer. Localizing data may require extensive investment in digital infrastructure and skill development, which could be financially demanding.

However, there are examples of African nations moving toward data localization. Nigeria and South Africa, for example, have both taken significant steps toward implementing data protection and localization regulations. Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulation includes provisions for storing and processing data within the country to enhance security and compliance, and South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) aims to give users more control over their data. These countries are setting a precedent, and others can look to them for guidance on striking a balance between privacy, security, and economic viability.

Partnering with BRICS for Digital Sovereignty

While Africa’s data should remain local, international partnerships can help build the infrastructure to achieve this goal. By collaborating with BRICS countries—such as China, India, and Russia—Africa can gain expertise and technology without complete dependence on Western tech giants. India’s experience with its own data localization policies and China’s substantial investments in African digital infrastructure offer valuable insights. This collaborative approach can mitigate the challenges of setting up independent digital ecosystems, enhancing Africa’s capability to manage and store data locally.

That said, partnering with BRICS members isn’t without risks. Given China’s and Russia’s mixed records on data privacy and control, African countries must negotiate agreements that prioritize transparency and respect digital rights.

Addressing Potential Resistance from International Companies

International companies may resist data localization measures, citing concerns about operational costs and complexities. However, other regions, such as the European Union and India, have shown that major corporations can adapt when regulations change. African nations can look to the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as a model for enforcement mechanisms and potential penalties for non-compliance. By implementing phased data localization requirements, African countries can encourage compliance without abruptly disrupting investment and operations.

Citizen Privacy and Advocacy: A Collective Effort

Beyond governmental efforts, citizen awareness and advocacy play critical roles in pushing for data localization. Digital rights organizations, such as Paradigm Initiative in Nigeria and Access Now, advocate for stronger data protection and user privacy. By mobilizing communities, these groups can raise awareness and demand accountability from both governments and corporations. As African nations work towards localization, citizens’ voices are instrumental in shaping laws that reflect their rights and concerns.

In conclusion, African countries can balance two essential goals with data localization: attracting foreign investment and protecting citizens’ data. A robust legal framework for data protection, partnerships with countries interested in fair data practices, and increased public awareness will help. Striking this balance will strengthen Africa’s digital sovereignty, allowing its citizens to retain control over their own information while benefiting from global technology partnerships.