Data protection is a big deal in Senegal, and the country’s Data Protection Commission (CDP) is taking it seriously. Recently, the CDP issued a warning to Yassir, an Algerian ride-hailing startup that has recently expanded its operations to Senegal, to comply with the country’s data protection laws and regulations.

The companies are required to declare their personal databases, data processing systems, and files used in their operations. Ride-hailing firms usually collect personal data from their customers, including name, email address, phone number, ride history, and location data when creating accounts on their apps or websites. Collection of data may also occur through cookies and other tracking technologies that gather information about browsing habits and user preferences.

The CDP has also called on the Operating Company (subcontractor) of the Regional Express Train to declare its video surveillance systems in the context of personal data protection. In its quarterly report, the commission has approved the personal data protection policy and charter of two companies, namely Globo Afrique SARL for the use of the artificial intelligence solution “ADAS/DSM,” and the Common Charter for the management and use of data from the TotalEnergies Marketing Senegal anti-fatigue system.

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The commission has issued Certificates of Conformity to Globo Afrique SARL and TotalEnergies Marketing Senegal, valid for three years and renewable upon expiry. The CDP’s directive and quarterly report demonstrate the significance of data protection in Senegal and the regulator’s efforts to ensure compliance with the regulations. It also highlights the need for companies operating in the country to adhere to the applicable data protection laws and obtain necessary certifications to operate legally.

Charles Rapulu Udoh

Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer, who has several years of experience working in Africa’s burgeoning tech startup industry. He has closed multi-million dollar deals bordering on venture capital, private equity, intellectual property (trademark, patent or design, etc.), mergers and acquisitions, in countries such as in the Delaware, New York, UK, Singapore, British Virgin Islands, South Africa, Nigeria etc. He’s also a corporate governance and cross-border data privacy and tax expert. 
As an award-winning writer and researcher, he is passionate about telling the African startup story, and is one of the continent’s pioneers in this regard