To administer the Data Protection Act and carry out due diligence processes to ensure adherence to the Act.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Legal
- Closing Date: 2026-06-18
Key Responsibilities
- 1. Provides guidance in implementation of policies, strategies and guidelines to enable compliance to the data protection act.
- 2. Guides in the assessment and alignment of Ministries, Departments and Agencies policies, procedures and standards to ensure compliance with Data Protection Act.
- 3. Protects the rights and freedom of data subjects and thereby ensuring that they are not adversely affected by processing operations.
- 4. Assesses risks inherent in the processing of personal data within the department taking into account the nature, scope, context and purposes of processing.
- 5. Addresses requests and complaints related to processing of personal data.
- 6. Identifies areas of non-compliance and makes recommendation on remedial action.
- 7. Provides training on the Data Protection Act for the department Staff.
- 8. Advices the department on their obligation related to processing of personal data in compliance with the Data Protection Act.
- 9. Prepares reports on matters related to processing of personal data for submission to the Commission or as may be directed to the relevant Authorities.
- 10.Represents the department in Fora discussing or engaging on matters of related data protection.
- 11.Implements initiatives to ensure prudency in utilization of the budget and its adherence to the procurement plans.
- 12.Delivering results and meeting customer expectation
Requirements
- Qualifications: Degree in Law/Data Science/Information Technology/Enterprise Risk Management, Project Management or any other related field from a reputable institution. Data Protection and/or Privacy certification will be an added advantage.
- Experience: At least four (4) year’s work experience in a business environment handling personal data/data compliance/security of data/data processing or related field in Government, Parastatal or Private Sector.
- Competencies:
- Data analytics
- Technology Savvy
- Research & Development
- Innovation
- Knowledgeable in Data protection regulatory protocols
- Deciding and Initiating Action
- Adhering to Principles and Values
- Analysing
- Writing and Reporting
- Applying Expertise and Technology
- Learning and Researching
- Delivering results and meeting customer expectation
Salary
D3 (P293 652 – P323 748) per annum
How to Apply
Applications:
Quote the vacancy circular, vacancy number of the post you are applying for and give the following details:
a) Certified true copies of original Certificates & Omang (Identity Card)
b) At least two (2) recent (not more than 6 months) work-related references;
c) Brief summary of career with duties (Curriculum Vitae);
d) In case of serving public officers: –
i) Date of first appointment
ii) Present post and salary scale and date of appointment thereto
Applications should be addressed to: – The Office of the Ombudsman, Private Bag BR 374, Gaborone OR hand delivered to Records Management Unit, 1st Floor.
IMPORTANT: All applications from serving public officers should be routed through their Heads of Departments & Permanent Secretaries. Applications not so routed will not be considered.
Applicants who do not meet the requirements will not be responded to.
CLOSING DATE: 18th June 2026
FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT: – Ms. O. Ditsile or T.N. Selotate @ Tel: 3953322
Quote the vacancy circular, vacancy number of the post you are applying for and give the following details:
a) Certified true copies of original Certificates & Omang (Identity Card)
b) At least two (2) recent (not more than 6 months) work-related references;
c) Brief summary of career with duties (Curriculum Vitae);
d) In case of serving public officers: –
i) Date of first appointment
ii) Present post and salary scale and date of appointment thereto
Applications should be addressed to: – The Office of the Ombudsman, Private Bag BR 374, Gaborone OR hand delivered to Records Management Unit, 1st Floor.
IMPORTANT: All applications from serving public officers should be routed through their Heads of Departments & Permanent Secretaries. Applications not so routed will not be considered.
Applicants who do not meet the requirements will not be responded to.
CLOSING DATE: 18th June 2026
FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT: – Ms. O. Ditsile or T.N. Selotate @ Tel: 3953322
REF Code: 170100163.1.1 | Vacancy Circular No: 5 of 2026
About the Company
The Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) (Filipino: Tanggapan ng Tanodbayan), is a constitutional body established under the 1987 Constitution, tasked with investigating and prosecuting government officials accused of crimes, particularly those involving graft and corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically needed for a Principal Data Protection Officer role in Botswana, especially within a government body?
Candidates usually require a degree in Law, Information Technology, Information Systems, or a related field, often coupled with a relevant postgraduate qualification. Professional certifications such as CIPP/E, CIPM, or other IT security/governance certifications are highly regarded and often expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Principal Data Protection Officer at the Office of the Ombudsman?
Day-to-day tasks involve advising on data protection compliance, conducting data protection impact assessments, handling data subject requests, and acting as a liaison with the Information and Data Protection Commissioner. You would also be responsible for developing, implementing, and enforcing data protection policies and providing internal training.
What is the typical work culture and general expectations for a Principal Data Protection Officer within the public sector in Botswana?
The public sector in Botswana emphasizes professionalism, adherence to established procedures, and a strong commitment to public service and ethical conduct. Expect a structured environment with a focus on meticulous record-keeping, policy compliance, and collaborative engagement within the office.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Principal Data Protection Officer in the Botswana public service?
Career progression might involve advancing to more senior legal, compliance, or oversight management positions within the public sector or other regulatory bodies in Botswana. There are also opportunities for specialization in areas like data governance, privacy law, or broader information security management.
What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one typically expect for a public sector role like this in Botswana?
Public sector roles in Botswana generally offer comprehensive benefits packages, including access to medical aid schemes, a pension fund, and various leave entitlements such as annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave. Specific details on the benefits provided will be outlined in the official job offer.
When applying for such a role in Botswana, what are employers typically looking for in terms of skills and experience, and what is the general application process?
Employers seek candidates with strong legal and technical expertise in data protection, excellent communication skills, and proven experience in compliance or a similar regulatory environment. The application process typically involves submitting a detailed CV and cover letter, followed by interviews and potentially professional assessments.