Tebelepele is a non-profit health and wellness organization dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of communities across Botswana for over 25 years. Tebelepele facilities are situated in 23 locations serving residents in rural and urban areas. Tebelepele is currently seeking a qualified candidate for the Data Protection Officer role.
Job Summary
- Employer: Tebelepele
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Legal
- 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.
- Triaged 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.
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
- Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-management skills.
- Excellent communication, facilitation and negotiation skills.
- Strong report writing and documentation skills.
- Ability to analyse programme gaps and develop practical solutions.
- Understanding of health systems and government programme structures.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining effective teamwork.
How to Apply
Apply by email: recruitment@tebelepele.org.bw
Phone: +267 3958014
Address: Human Resources Manager
Tebelepele Wellness Centre
Private Bag T12 Gaborone
Phone: +267 3958014
Address: Human Resources Manager
Tebelepele Wellness Centre
Private Bag T12 Gaborone
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Data Protection Officer role in Botswana?
Employers usually require a law degree or qualification in information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CIPP/E, CIPM, or CDPSE are highly valued. Knowledge of Botswana's Data Protection Act, 2018 and its regulations is essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Data Protection Officer in Gaborone?
You will monitor compliance with data protection laws, conduct privacy impact assessments, and handle data subject access requests. The role involves training staff on data protection policies and investigating data breaches. You will also serve as the contact point for the Information and Data Protection Commission.
How does workplace culture in Botswana typically affect this legal role?
Botswana workplaces value respect for hierarchy and collaborative decision-making, so building relationships across departments is crucial. Punctuality and professionalism are expected, though meetings may start with customary greetings. Understanding both Setswana cultural norms and modern corporate governance is advantageous.
What career progression opportunities exist for Data Protection Officers in Botswana?
With experience, you can advance to senior compliance roles, become a Head of Legal or Risk, or specialize in cybersecurity governance. Some professionals transition to consulting or join regional organizations covering SADC markets. Continuous learning in evolving data laws across Africa supports long-term growth.
What typical benefits should I expect when applying for this role in Botswana?
Benefits generally include medical aid contributions, pension schemes such as BPOPF participation, and annual leave entitlements per Botswana labour law. Some employers offer performance bonuses and professional development allowances. Specific packages vary significantly by organization size and sector.
What do employers in Botswana look for when hiring a Data Protection Officer?
Employers prioritize demonstrated knowledge of local data protection legislation and practical experience with compliance frameworks. Strong communication skills in English and familiarity with Setswana are often preferred. Evidence of prior regulatory engagement or audit experience strengthens your application.
