STAATSKOERANT, 31 Mei 2024 No. 50741   137 6.14. The Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of CommunicationRelated Information Act 70 of 2002 (RICA) 6.15. DPSA Determination and Directive on the Usage of Cloud Computing Services in the Public Service Through this comprehensive legislative framework, South Africa aims to foster a secure, efficient, and innovative digital environment that supports both governmental and economic objectives, ensuring that the nation can harness the full potential of cloud computing and data technology. 7. POLICY STATEMENT This policy articulates the government’s comprehensive approach and guidelines for the collection, storage, use, and sharing of data. It also outlines strategies for leveraging cloud technologies to enhance government services and bolster the growth of the digital economy. By establishing clear principles and practices, this policy aims to ensure that data is managed securely and ethically, while promoting innovation and efficiency within the public sector. The ultimate goal is to create a robust framework that supports transparency, protects privacy, and fosters economic development through the strategic use of digital and cloud technologies. 8. PURPOSE This policy aims to enable South Africans to realize the socio-economic value of data, outlining the government's policy position on cloud-based long-term data storage and compute requirements. It also establishes the necessary governance mechanisms to support these initiatives. By doing so, the policy seeks to ensure that data is utilized to drive innovation, economic growth, and improved public services, while maintaining stringent standards for data security and privacy. 9. AIM The Policy aims to establish consistency and predictability in the adoption of data and cloud technologies by both the government and South African citizens. It seeks to: 9.1 Outline key enablers for cloud adoption and utilization to drive digital transformation and digital economic inclusion. 9.2 Create a safe and secure environment for digitization and digitalization. This gazette is also available free online at www.gpwonline.co.za 15