Privacy Policy

RuralLink AI (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal data when you use our services.

By using RuralLink AI, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

1. What Data We Collect

• Phone number (to deliver responses and manage your account)
• Messages you send us (e.g., questions, requests, feedback)
• Service usage data (e.g., when and how often you use our platform)

We do not collect unnecessary data such as financial details, browsing history, or unrelated personal information.

2. Why We Collect Your Data

• Deliver AI-powered responses to your SMS queries
• Improve the quality and accuracy of our services
• Provide schools, parents, and partners with educational and engagement insights
• Ensure system security and prevent misuse of the platform

3. Lawful Basis for Processing

We process personal data in line with the Kenya Data Protection Act, 2019. Our legal grounds include:

• Consent: You opt in by texting our shortcode or using our platform
• Contractual necessity: To provide you with the requested service
• Legitimate interest: To improve RuralLink AI and ensure fair use
• Legal obligation: To comply with Kenyan regulatory requirements

4. Your Rights as a User

Under the Kenya Data Protection Act, you have the right to:

• Access: Request a copy of your data we hold
• Correction: Ask us to fix any errors in your data
• Deletion: Request that your data be erased (“right to be forgotten”)
• Objection: Stop certain types of data processing
• Portability: Request your data in a format you can transfer elsewhere

To exercise these rights, email us at tech@rurallink.africa.

5. How We Protect Your Data

• We use encryption and secure servers to keep your data safe
• Data is only accessible to authorized RuralLink staff and partners
• We never sell your personal data to third parties
• Data is stored only for as long as needed (usually up to 2 years) and then deleted or anonymized

6. Sharing of Data

We may share data only when:

• With your consent (e.g., when you opt into school dashboards)
• With trusted partners like schools or agronomists for educational or advisory purposes
• When required by law or regulatory authorities

7. Children & Students

• Students’ interactions are tracked in a way visible to both teachers and parents/guardians
• AI support is designed to complement, not replace teachers or parental guidance
• No child’s data is shared outside the school or RuralLink without proper authorization

8. Changes to this Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy occasionally. If major changes are made, we will notify users via SMS or on our website.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about your privacy, please contact us:

📩 Email: tech@rurallink.africa

🌐 Website: rurallink.africa