Internet Society Rwanda Chapter marks Global Encryption Day with a call for safer digital practices

Elias Hakizimana Oct 10, 2025 0 Comments

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

The Internet Society Rwanda Chapter (ISOC Rwanda) joined the global community in celebrating Global Encryption Day with a strong message: online safety is a shared responsibility that begins with each internet user.

Held on October 9, 2025, at Groupe Scolaire Kibungo in Ntarama Sector, Bugesera District, the event brought together parents, teachers, and youth to learn how encryption helps keep personal data secure and private online.

Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, said the day serves as a reminder that cybersecurity extends beyond devices and applications.

“Encryption is about safeguarding the privacy of individuals and ensuring the security of their communications,” he explained. “It ensures that a message can only be read by its intended recipient, maintaining its originality and confidentiality from sender to receiver.”

***Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, highlights the importance of encryption in protecting privacy and communication security.***

He noted that although Global Encryption Day is officially celebrated on October 21, Rwanda observed it earlier as part of Global Encryption Awareness Month, which focuses on digital literacy and safe internet practices across communities.

“Encryption is the foundation and cornerstone of cybersecurity,” Mfitumukiza emphasized.

“Throughout this month, we have trained people from different sectors to understand the importance of using secure apps and websites. People should think twice before clicking suspicious links or sharing personal details online.” He added.

**Participants and officials pose for a group photo during Global Encryption Day celebrations organized by ISOC Rwanda.**

During the event, Jules Nizeyimana, Vice Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, led an interactive session on understanding encryption and recognizing safe online platforms.

He demonstrated how users can check for website security, looking for “https://” and the padlock symbol and, shared tips on avoiding scams and phishing attempts.

“Encryption helps protect personal data on platforms such as Irembo, mobile banking, e-learning, and healthcare services,” Nizeyimana explained. “We want Rwandans to know how to secure their accounts and trust the digital services they use daily.” He added.

He also guided participants through WhatsApp privacy settings, including how to control who can view their profile photo, status, or “last seen” information, and how to enable two-step verification to strengthen account security.

***Jules Nizeyimana, Vice Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, guides participants on encryption and safe online practices during Global Encryption Day.***

For many attendees, the lessons were eye-opening.

Ancilla Nyiratebuka, a mother of two, said the training gave her practical tools to protect herself online.

“I have learned how to use WhatsApp safely. Before, I didn’t know how to block unknown contacts or detect scams,” she shared. “Once, scammers sent me a fake link saying I had won RWF 80,000. I almost fell for it. Now I know how to verify messages and take precautions to stay safe.”

Ancilla said she now understands what encryption means and how it helps protect personal conversations and private data. “Thanks to the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, I feel more confident using digital platforms,” she added.

The event highlighted the growing need to equip citizens with digital security knowledge as Rwanda continues to expand its online services. ISOC Rwanda’s initiative reflects a broader effort to ensure that everyone—not just experts—can benefit from the internet safely and responsibly.

“Cybersecurity is not only for experts; it’s everyone’s responsibility. When we use the internet wisely and understand encryption, we protect not just ourselves but our entire digital community.” Mfitumukiza concluded.