Tebeleope is a non-profit health and wellness organization dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of communities across Botswana for over 25 years. Tebeleope facilities are situated in 23 locations serving residents in rural and urban areas. Tebeleope is currently seeking a qualified candidate for the Data Protection Officer role.
Job Summary
- Employer: Tebeleope
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Legal
- Salary: A competitive package commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor Compliance: Track adherence to data protection privacy laws, internal privacy policies, and third-party processing agreements.
- Conduct Audits: Schedule and perform routine data protection audits to identify systematic compliance gaps, technical exposures and processing risks.
- Maintain Documentation: Ensure the organization creates and routinely updates a centralised register of processing activities.
- Oversee the organization’s DPIA’s: Lead the teams through the Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA’s) before launching high risk data processing systems or new technologies.
- Develop Privacy Frameworks: Draft, implement and review the organization’s data protection policy, data retention policy, Information security policy and data sharing agreements.
- Advise Leadership: Deliver direct compliance updates, quarterly risk metrics, and strategic governance counsel to Board members and Senior Management
- Regulatory Point of contact: Cooperate directly with Data Protection Commission during inquiries or standard audits.
- Facilitate Individual Rights: Manage and respond to Data Subjects Access Requests, privacy complaints, and requests for data deletion or rectification.
- Triage Data Incidents: Lead or consult on the containment and impact evaluation of potential personal data breaches.
- Manage Notifications: Advise the organization on its legal obligations regarding swift breach notifications to both regulators and affected individuals.
- Educate staff: Conduct regular compliance workshops and training sessions for employees handling personally identifiable information.
- Promote Privacy by Design: Work alongside system developers and IT teams during early design reviews to embed privacy defaults into new systems.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Law, Risk Management, Business Administration or related field.
- Data Protection certification
- At least 5 years in data governance, compliance or security management
- Experience working with government, district health teams and healthcare facilities.
- Experience working in NGO, donor-funded or government health programmes.
- Proven experience handling personal data, data compliance, security of data or related.
- Knowledgeable in Data Protection Regulation Protocols.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data analysis and documentation
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and data security
- Ability to lead and direct teams
Salary
A competitive package commensurate with experience and qualifications
How to Apply
Apply by email: recruitments@tebeleope.org.bw
Phone: +267 3958014
Address: Human Resources Manager, Tebeleope Wellness Centre, Private Bag 112 Gaborone
Phone: +267 3958014
Address: Human Resources Manager, Tebeleope Wellness Centre, Private Bag 112 Gaborone
About the Company
Tebelelo Mazile Seretse was the first woman to serve as ambassador to the United States from Botswana. While a member of Parliament from 1999 - 2004, she had three Cabinet level positions: Acting Minister of Presidential Affairs, Minister of Trade and Industry, Wildlife and Tourism and Minister of Works, Transport and Communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Data Protection Officer in Botswana?
A law degree or diploma in legal studies is typically preferred, though qualifications in IT, compliance, or risk management may also be accepted. Professional certifications such as CIPP/E, CIPM, or CDPSE are increasingly valued by employers. Knowledge of Botswana's Data Protection Act, 2018 and its implementation is essential.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer in Gaborone?
You will conduct data protection impact assessments, develop and maintain privacy policies, and respond to data subject access requests. You will also train staff on compliance requirements, monitor data processing activities, and liaise with the Information and Data Protection Commission when necessary. Regular audits and incident reporting form a significant part of the role.
How does workplace culture in Botswana affect this legal role?
Botswana workplaces value respect for hierarchy and formal communication, especially in legal and compliance positions. Building relationships across departments is crucial, as DPOs must influence without direct authority. Punctuality, professionalism, and discretion are highly expected in this field.
What career progression opportunities exist for Data Protection Officers in Botswana?
With experience, you can advance to Head of Compliance, Legal Counsel, or Chief Privacy Officer roles within larger organizations. Some professionals transition into consultancy or join the Information and Data Protection Commission. Specializing in sectors like banking, telecoms, or healthcare can accelerate growth.
What benefits are typically offered for Data Protection Officer positions in Botswana?
Employers usually provide medical aid contributions, pension schemes through BPOPF or private providers, and statutory annual leave of 15-25 days. Professional development support for certifications and conference attendance is increasingly common. Benefits vary significantly between government, parastatal, and private sector employers.
What do employers in Botswana look for when hiring a Data Protection Officer?
Employers prioritize demonstrated understanding of local data protection legislation and practical compliance experience. Strong written communication skills for policy drafting and the ability to explain complex regulations to non-legal staff are essential. Membership in the Law Society of Botswana or relevant professional bodies strengthens your application.
