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RAIC Boss Speaks on Progress in Digital Access to Information at UN High-Level Political Forum
Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, the Chairman and Information Commissioner of Sierra Leone's Right to Access to Access Information Commission (RAIC) has highlighted gains made by the country over the years in digitalizing access to information in Sierra Leone, especially since he assumed the position in 2018. Dr Shaw was speaking…
Shining a Light on Governance: How Access to Information Laws Empower Citizens
Imagine a world where government actions are shrouded in secrecy, where citizens have no way to know how their tax money is spent, or how decisions impacting their lives are made. This is the reality for many across the globe, where a lack of transparency breeds distrust and undermines public…
Navigating the Challenges of Access to Information
The right to access information is a fundamental human right that is essential for a democratic society. It allows citizens to hold their governments accountable, participate in decision-making, and protect their rights. However, implementing access to information laws and policies can be a complex and challenging process. **Lack of Political…
A Guide to Accessing Public Information in Africa: Know Your Rights and Use the Right Tools
In a democratic society, access to information is a fundamental right of every citizen. In Africa, many countries have made significant strides in enacting access to information laws to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that citizens are aware of these laws and know…
An Overview of International, Regional, and National Legal Instruments on Access to Information Laws
Access to information is a fundamental human right that is critical for transparency, accountability, and good governance. In Africa, several international, regional, and national legal instruments exist to guarantee this right. This blog post will highlight some of these legal instruments. Summary International Legal Instruments Universal Declaration of Human Rights…
Why do African countries need independent access to information bodies?
Access to information is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, and many national constitutions. In order to ensure that this right is fully realized, it is essential for African countries to have independent access…
Exploring the Progress of Access to Information in Africa
As of today, 29 African countries have enacted access to information laws as recognised by the United Nations. As of 2024 here is a list of African countries that have enacted access to information laws: South Africa - Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 Uganda - Access to Information…
The Right of Access to Information: A Necessity for Africa’s Progress
In recent years, the right of access to information has gained significant recognition and importance in the global fight against corruption, promoting transparency, and ensuring good governance. This right is enshrined in various international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and…
INFORMATION REGULATOR SA, HOSTS ANIC GENERAL MEETING
Written by Koketso Moeng (Information Regulator South Africa) The Information Regulator (South Africa) hosted the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the African Network of Information Commissions (ANIC) on May 23-24, 2024, at its Braamfontein offices in Johannesburg. This pivotal event brought together information commissioners, ombudsmen, and other regulatory authorities from…
