# Can clinics in Kenya store patient data on cloud servers outside Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-clinics-store-patient-data-outside-kenya
For: Executives | Data protection and privacy | Last updated 19 October 2026

**Answer:** Only under strict conditions. Kenya's Data Protection Act 2019 treats health data as sensitive personal data, and section 49 allows it to be transferred outside Kenya only with the patient's consent and confirmed safeguards. Before using an overseas cloud service, ask your vendor in writing where data is hosted and backed up, and sign a data processing agreement. Confirm your obligations with a qualified advocate or the ODPC.

### Questions to ask your vendor

A vendor that cannot answer these clearly in writing is a compliance risk for your clinic.

- In which countries is patient data stored and backed up?
- What safeguards protect data transferred outside Kenya?
- Will you sign a data processing agreement that states the hosting location?
- How quickly will you tell us about a breach? Processors must notify you within 48 hours.

This is general information, not legal advice.

## Related questions

- [Can employers screen staff for mental health conditions?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-employers-screen-staff-for-mental-health-conditions)
- [Does a clinic need to register with the ODPC?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/does-a-clinic-need-to-register-with-the-odpc)
- [Does a mental health organisation need a Data Protection Officer?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/does-a-mental-health-organisation-need-a-data-protection-officer)

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