Personal data is handed over in Sierra Leone every minute of every day.
Where does it go, and who has access to it?
CIPHER is a research centre for information privacy, cybersecurity, human-centered technology and digital ethics. We study what becomes of the data collected about people in this country — who holds it, under what rules, and with what protection.
Rigorous Research
Evidence-based studies across information privacy, cybersecurity, and digital governance.
Policy Engagement
Turning findings into actionable recommendations for public institutions.
Capacity Building
Strengthening digital literacy and skills across every sector of society.
Who We Are
The Center for Information Privacy, Human-Centered Technology, and Ethics Research is a not-for-profit research organisation dedicated to work at the intersection of information privacy, cybersecurity, the human dimensions of technology, and digital ethics. CIPHER is incorporated as a company limited by guarantee under the Companies Act, 2009 of the Republic of Sierra Leone. It has no share capital, and no part of its income or property may be paid to any member, director or officer other than reasonable remuneration for services rendered.
“An institution that researches privacy must hold itself to a higher standard than it recommends to others.”
Our Approach
We believe credible research, informed policy recommendations, and community capacity building are the pillars of a secure digital society. CIPHER engages with the Government of Sierra Leone, international organisations, academia, civil society, and the private sector to promote evidence-based digital governance.
Governance
CIPHER is governed by a Board of Directors comprising three to nine members who serve renewable three-year terms. The Board holds overall responsibility for strategic direction, financial oversight, and legal compliance. The Executive Director, appointed by the Board, manages day-to-day operations and reports directly to the Directors. A Research and Advisory Council of subject-matter experts provides technical and academic guidance in an honorary capacity.
Our Mission
To conduct independent research on information privacy, data protection law and policy, cybersecurity governance, human-centered technology, and digital ethics; to advise public institutions on legislation and digital governance frameworks; and to build capacity across government, academia, civil society, and the private sector in Sierra Leone and the wider region.
Our Vision
A digitally secure and inclusive Sierra Leone where privacy is respected, governance is transparent, and technology serves all citizens equitably.
What We Set Out to Achieve
Conduct, commission, and publish independent research on information privacy, data protection law and policy, cybersecurity governance, human-centered technology, and digital ethics.
Advise and support the Government of Sierra Leone, its ministries, regulatory agencies, and public institutions on data protection legislation, national cybersecurity policy, and digital governance frameworks.
Provide professional training, capacity building programs, workshops, and certificate courses to government officials, private sector practitioners, civil society actors, and academic institutions.
Promote and protect the digital rights and privacy of all persons in Sierra Leone, with particular attention to vulnerable populations including women, children, youth, and rural communities.
Develop and disseminate educational materials, policy briefs, national reports, and public awareness campaigns on information privacy and cybersecurity.
Collaborate with Sierra Leonean universities, regional and international academic institutions, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international bodies including the United Nations, ECOWAS, the African Union, and the Internet Society.
Who We Work With
Our objectives direct us toward specific institutions and communities.
Government, Ministries & Regulators
For research evidence, comparative analysis, and technical input on data protection and cybersecurity policy.
Universities & Research Institutions
For joint research, curriculum development, and the co-supervision of postgraduate work.
Banks, Telecoms & Employers
For training, data governance advice, and independent assessment.
Civil Society & Media
For research and materials that support public understanding of digital rights.
Students & Early-career Researchers
A field with almost no domestic pipeline. Building one is part of our mandate.
Three Pillars of Work
CIPHER operates through research, direct policy engagement, and capacity building to advance Sierra Leone's digital future.
Research
Independent research across 5 core domains.
Policy Engagement
Advising government on legislation and digital governance frameworks.
Capacity & Outreach
Training professionals and raising public awareness across Sierra Leone.
Frequently Asked
We welcome partnerships with researchers, policymakers, civil-society organizations, and the private sector. Reach out through our contact form and our partnerships team will follow up within two business days.
Yes. Our published research, policy briefs, and frameworks are freely available. A dedicated publications library is launching alongside our News section.
We design workshops, curricula, and certification pathways for government, academia, civil society, and industry. Program schedules are announced on our News page.
We are headquartered in Bo, Southern Province, Sierra Leone, and collaborate with partners across West Africa and internationally.