← Articles

How to become a data protection officer in Zimbabwe

Becoming a Certified Data Protection Officer in Zimbabwe: Step-by-Step Guide and Costs

With the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) actively enforcing mandatory compliance under the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07], organizations across the country are requiring qualified Data Protection Officers (DPOs). This certification course—administered jointly by POTRAZ and the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT) is a formal prerequisite for registration and practice as a Data Protection Officer in Zimbabwe.

I went through this process myself and am now a certified Data Protection Officer, so this guide comes from first-hand experience. Here is the updated breakdown of the official entry requirements, application process, costs, and contact details based on official guidelines.

Who Provides the Training?

The course is administered by HIT in conjunction with POTRAZ. It is designed for data protection practitioners and any professionals wishing to understand the data protection ecosystem and laws in Zimbabwe.

Admission Requirements

Applicants can qualify through either standard degree entry or special entry pathways:

  • Standard Entry: Hold at least a 1st degree in any relevant field.
  • Special Entry: Hold at least 5 ‘O’ Level passes (including English Language) plus either:
    • At least 2 ‘A’ Level passes, or
    • A relevant Diploma accompanied by at least 2 years of work experience in a relevant field.

Step-by-Step Registration & Submission Process

  1. Obtain the Application Form: Apply online or download application forms via the POTRAZ website or the HIT website. Physical forms can also be obtained at the HIT Admissions Office or POTRAZ Offices (Borrowdale Office Park, Borrowdale Road, Harare).
  2. Pay Application Fee: Pay the required $35 application fee.
  3. Assemble Submission Package:
    • Duly completed application form
    • Proof of payment (POP) for application fees
    • Copies of academic certificates
    • Copy of National Identification (ID)
  4. Submit Application: Submit online or physically deliver your documentation to either the HIT Admissions Office or POTRAZ Offices.
  5. Await Approval & Pay Tuition: Once approved into the cohort, pay the $1,444 tuition fee to secure your seat.

Cost and Payment Details

  • Application Fee: $35
  • Tuition Fee: $1,444 (inclusive of tax)

Official Contacts & Inquiries

For specific details regarding course schedules and cohorts, you can contact the official course coordinators directly:

Need a Data Protection Officer?

If your organization needs a certified DPO, or help getting compliant with the Cyber and Data Protection Act, feel free to get in touch. You can email me or reach out on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: This blog post is provided for informational purposes only. I am an independent party and not affiliated with, sponsored by, or an official representative of POTRAZ or the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT).