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On September 24, 2023, the Right to Information Commission organized an exciting and informative quiz show, “What Do You Know?,” as part of the RTI Month celebration on GTV. The show aimed to raise awareness about the RTI law (Act 989) among the public. With its entertaining format and knowledgeable participants, the quiz served as an effective means of educating viewers about their rights and the importance of transparent governance.

The quiz, hosted by the Mr. Dan Afari Yeboah, featured contestants from the Business and Financial Times, Fourth Estate and Information Officers. The intense competition showcased the contestants’ understanding of key aspects of the RTI law.

After an exhilarating rounds of questions, both groups of Information Officers secured 1st and 2nd positions with 3rd and 4th positions going to the Fourth Estate and Business and Financial Times respectively, showcasing their impressive knowledge on Act 989.

The Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., emphasized that the quiz was a valuable opportunity to engage the public and create awareness about the RTI law as part of the Commission’s month long celebration. By promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, the law empowers citizens to access information and hold public institutions accountable.

Through events like the “What Do You Know?” quiz, the Right to Information Commission strives to ensure that the RTI law becomes ingrained in the society. It not only encourages citizens to exercise their right to access information but also encourages government institutions to proactively disclose pertinent information.

The success of this quiz reflects the growing understanding and appreciation for the RTI law among various stakeholders. It serves as a catalyst for citizens to demand transparency and accountability while fostering a culture of openness and trust.

The Right to Information Commission (RTIC) held a Health Walk and games as part of its RTI Month 2023 celebration. The event took place on September 16, 2023, and saw members of the Commission as well as other stakeholders in the RTI space converge for a day of fitness and sociability.

The Health Walk started from the premises of the RTI Commission and saw participants walking the streets of Accra towards the PRESEC Odadeɛ Alumni Astroturf, Legon. The walk was aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging people to exercise regularly.

Following the Health Walk was a series of Health screening such as Hepatitis B, Eye screening, Malaria screening, Sugar Level, Breast screening, etc., conducted by MDS-Lancet, My Eye Center, Sena Anku Memorial Foundation among others.

There were series of games, with football taking center stage.
The competition saw the RTI Commission’s football team go head-to-head with Ghanaweb in the final game to determine the overall winners. After a hard-fought battle, Ghanaweb emerged victorious, winning the gaming competition.

The event was not only about promoting a healthy lifestyle, but also about fostering a sense of community and bringing stakeholders in the RTI space together. The RTIC has been at the forefront of pushing for transparency and accountability in Ghana, and events like this go a long way in building relationships with those who share in the vision of Accountability and Transparency.

Furthermore, the RTI Month serves as a reminder of the importance of the Right to Information Act 2019 (Act 989), which grants citizens access to information held by public institutions. It is an essential law that promotes Transparency and Accountability and helps to fight corruption.

The RTI Month 2023 celebration health walk and games was a huge success, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to come together and promote a healthy lifestyle while fostering togetherness. The RTIC will undoubtedly continue to push for the promotion of Transparency and Accountability in Ghana, and events like this serve as a reminder of Commission’s commitment to that goal.

The Right to Information Commission in Ghana marked a significant milestone in its RTI Month 2023 celebration by convening a stakeholders’ engagement session on the 14th of September 2023 to discuss the Draft Legislative Instrument (L.I) at the British Council in Accra.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including Civil Society Organizations, Government Officials, Representatives of the National Council of Persons with Disability (NCPD), and members of the public.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Board Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta. His words set the tone for a productive and inclusive discussion.

Under the guidance of the Board chairman, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, and the Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the stakeholders actively participated in deliberations on the proposed L.I. This crucial instrument aims to strengthen the right to information in Ghana, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

During the session, participants provided valuable inputs and recommendations on various aspects of the L.I. Discussions revolved around the scope of information covered, procedures for accessing information, manner of access, application reviews, penalties for non-compliance, proactive disclosure, and effective implementation mechanisms among others.

The Commission assured stakeholders that their valuable feedback would be carefully evaluated and integrated into the final version of the L.I. This collaborative approach will contribute to the development of a robust legal framework that upholds the right to information in Ghana.

The vote of thanks was given by Nana Kwame Duah, a Board Member of the Commission, who expressed gratitude to all participants for their time and dedication to the cause of transparency. The closing remarks were given by Mrs. Elizabeth Asare, Deputy Chairperson of the Commission, who reiterated the importance of collaboration and encouraged everyone to continue working together for a more accountable and open society.

By involving stakeholders in the formation of legislation, the Commission is ensuring that the interests and concerns of all parties are addressed. This engagement sets a positive precedent for future discussions and reinforces the importance of dialogue and collaboration in building a stronger democracy.

The stakeholders’ engagement showcased the dedication of the Right to Information Commission in fostering transparency and citizen empowerment. It exemplified the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that diverse perspectives were considered in shaping the final L.I.

The Right to Information (RTI) Commission on the 31st of August, 2023 officially launched its much-anticipated RTI Month celebration, taking place throughout the month of September. This year’s theme, “The Importance of the Online Space for Access to Information,” seeks to highlight the increasing relevance of digital platforms in ensuring information accessibility.

The Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta in his opening remarks emphasized the importance of the RTI Act and encouraged further collaboration between the Commission and the media.

The press statement, read by Deputy Chairperson Mrs. Elizabeth Asare, signaled the unwavering commitment of the Commission to fostering transparency and accountability.

The Commission outlined plans to engage with stakeholders in various ways during this month-long celebration with activities such as Churches and Mosques Engagement, a Stakeholders’ Engagement on September 14th, Health Walk and Games on September 16th, and a Quiz on Act 989 on September 24th. The celebration will be climaxed with a public lecture on September 28th, 2023 marking the International Day of Universal Access (IDUA) to Information. There will also be media interviews with various media houses throughout the month.

The RTI Month celebration will serve as yet another avenue for the Commission to interact and engage with its stakeholders, raising public awareness about the significance of information access.

Mr. David Oppon-Kusi, a Board Member of the Commission in his closing remarks, stressed the necessity for sustained media coverage of RTI-related matters.

Join us celebrate RTI Month 2023 and let’s unlock the power of information access together!

In our quest to promote transparency and foster an accountable governance system, the Right to Information Commission held a public lecture on July 25th, 2023, at Cape Coast University’s SMS Auditorium. The event focused on enlightening the public about their Right to Access Information and the role of the Commission in upholding this right as mandated by the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).

Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, Chairman of the Commission, delivered a keynote address, highlighting the importance of the Right to Information Act and its potential to drive societal development. He emphasized that access to information is a fundamental human right and serves as the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. His remarks underscored the need for government institutions to proactively share information to ensure public trust and confidence.

The Central Regional Coordinating Director, Mr. Kingsley Agyei Boahene, on behalf of the Central Regional Minister, Hon. Marigold Assan, delivered the welcome address. He expressed gratitude to the commission for organizing the event and recognized the crucial role played by the Right to Information Commission in promoting accountability within the government. His address highlighted the significance of government officials and heads of various institutions actively supporting and abiding by the act at all levels.

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the Act, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., a presentation and explored the nuances of Act 989, elucidating key provisions and its implications for both individuals and institutions. This session proved to be an invaluable tool for disseminating essential knowledge and empowering attendees to exercise their rights confidently.

Furthermore, the interactive Questions and Answers session that followed proved to be a forum for robust and insightful discussions. Attendees eagerly raised queries and sought clarification, fostering an environment of active engagement and intellectual curiosity.

The public lecture was a remarkable achievement for the Right to Information Commission, serving as a commendable effort to sensitize the public and foster a culture of accountability and transparency. By empowering individuals and institutions to exercise their right to access information, the Commission ensures that citizens are equipped with the necessary tools to make informed decisions and hold their leaders accountable.

The public lecture on the Right to Information Act, 2019, was a resounding success, serving as a clarion call for accountability and transparency. Through the collective efforts of citizens and institutions, we can foster an environment in which access to information is respected and upheld, ultimately paving the way for a more accountable and participatory society.

The Right to Information Commission, in their steadfast commitment to promoting transparency and accountability, held a highly informative public lecture on the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) on the 27th of July, 2023. The event took place at Akroma Plaza in Takoradi, drawing the attention of Heads of Public Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Students and the public keen on understanding and utilizing their right to access information.

Under the patronage of the Regional Minister, the Western Regional Coordinating Director, Mr. Frederick Agyemang, delivered the welcome address. He emphasized the importance of the Right to Information Act in fostering a more transparent and accountable society, urging attendees to actively engage with the subject matter.

The keynote speech was delivered by Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, the Board Chairman of the Right to Information Commission. In his address, Justice Ofori-Atta highlighted the essential provisions of Act 989, emphasizing how this legislation empowers citizens to access vital information from public institutions. His words resonated among the audience, inspiring individuals to exercise their rights and play an active role in promoting good governance.

The Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission further elucidated Act 989 through an insightful presentation. Attendees were walked through the act’s crucial clauses, its impact on society, and the practical steps required to request information. The engaging and interactive session fostered a deeper understanding of the act’s intricacies, empowering citizens with the knowledge to navigate the process effectively.

Closing remarks were offered by Mr. David Oppon-Kusi, a Board Member of the Commission. He expressed his gratitude to the attendees for their active participation, emphasizing the significance of their commitment to utilizing the Right to Information Act as a tool for societal change. Mr. Oppon-Kusi encouraged citizens to embrace their rights under Act 989 and actively engage with public institutions to foster transparency and accountability.

The public lecture was a resounding success, allowing citizens of Takoradi and the Western Region as a whole to deepen their understanding of the Right to Information Act, 2019.

The Right to Information Commission, led by its esteemed Board Chairman, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, paid a courtesy call to the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Kwabena Okyere Darko, and the Sekondi Traditional Council. The visit served as an opportunity to formally inform the regional government and the traditional council about the Commission’s upcoming public lecture on the Right to Information Act, 2019(Act 989). The event, to be held at Akroma Plaza in Takoradi on the 27th of July, 2023, aims to raise awareness and promote the importance of information access in Ghana.

The Right to Information Commission, comprising its Board Chairman, Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng, other Board Members, Management, and Staff, embarked on this visit to engage with key stakeholders involved in governance and traditional affairs. The warm welcome extended by Mr. Frederick Agyemang, the Regional Coordinating Director, on behalf of Hon. Kwabena Okyere Darko, and Nana Barima Ekow Gyesa II, on behalf of the Sekondi Traditional Council, exemplified the significance of the Commission’s work in ensuring transparency and accountability.

The upcoming public lecture on the Right to Information Act, 2019(Act 989) holds immense value in enabling citizens to exercise their right to access information. By disseminating knowledge about the law and its implications, the Right to Information Commission seeks to enhance governance and promote participatory democracy. This event serves as a platform for individuals from diverse sectors to engage in informative discussions, foster a culture of open communication, and understand the transformative power of access to information.

The Right to Information Commission’s courtesy call on the Western Regional Minister and the Sekondi Traditional Council stood as an important milestone in fostering collaboration and raising awareness about right of access to information.

The Right to Information Commission recently made a courtesy call on the Central Regional Minister, Hon. Marigold Assan, and the Regional Coordinating Director, Mr. Kingsley Agyei Boahene, as part of their activities leading up to a public lecture on the Right to Information law in Cape Coast.

The RTI Commission, headed by its Board Chairman, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, and Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., along with other board members and management, visited the Regional Coordinating Council to officially inform and invite the Regional Minister to the public lecture.

The visit was regarded as a significant step in promoting transparency and accountability in the Central Region of Ghana. The Right to Information law grants citizens access to public information, thereby enabling them to hold government officials accountable. The public lecture aims to educate the public and enhance their understanding of their rights under this legislation.

On behalf of the Regional Minister, Mr. Kingsley Agyei , warmly received the Commission and expressed their appreciation for the invitation. He acknowledged the importance of the Right to Information law in empowering citizens and ensuring good governance. He also emphasized the Minister’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote accountability and transparency in the region.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng in his remarks highlighted the key objectives of the public lecture and explained the role of the Right to Information Commission in enforcing the law.

The Regional Coordinating Director, Mr. Kingsley Agyei Boahene, commended the Commission for their efforts and assured them of the Regional Coordinating Council’s support for the public lecture. He stressed the importance of creating awareness about the Right to Information law and encouraged active participation from the public.

The Right to Information Commission’s nationwide sensitization tour has arrived in the Central Region. As such, the delegation Led by the Board Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, accompanied by the Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., other Board Members, Management and Staff paid a courtesy call to the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Council, Osaberima Kwesi Atta II, at his palace, the Emintsimadze palace in Cape Coast.

The Commission sought to officially inform Osaberima Kwesi Atta II of its upcoming public lecture on the Right to Information law on the 25th of July,2023 in Cape Coast. The delegation was warmly received.

The Executive Secretary, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., in his address, passionately discussed the importance of the Right to Information law and its role in promoting democracy and accountability in our society. He emphasized the Commission’s commitment to fostering transparency, ensuring access to information, and empowering citizens to actively participate in governance.

He further detailed the various initiatives and programs that the Commission has undertaken to educate citizens about their rights and maximize the benefits of the Right to Information law. He highlighted how the upcoming public lecture in Cape Coast would serve as a platform to educate, engage, and inspire the community to take advantage of this crucial legislation.

Moved by the vision of the Commission, Osaberima Kwesi Atta II graciously extended his royal blessings and wholeheartedly endorsed their endeavors. He recognized the significance of empowering citizens with access to information, expressed his firm belief in the mission of the Commission, vowed his support and encouraged the public to participate actively in the public lecture.

The Right to Information (RTI) Commission of Ghana took a monumental step towards cultivating open and transparent governance with the launch of its five-year strategic plan. The momentous event, held on the 20th of July 2023, brought together esteemed dignitaries, including the governing board of the Commission led by Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta, and the Information Minister, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, who officiated the launch of the strategic plan.

The strategic plan, dubbed “Pathway to Open and Transparent Governance: A Five-Year Strategy for the Right to Information Commission of Ghana,” represents the roadmap which outlines the Commission’s vision and objectives in promoting transparency, accountability, and access to information within the country.

Recognizing the fundamental right of citizens to access information from public institutions, the strategic plan serves as a guiding framework for the Commission’s operations and intervention strategies over the next five years. By ensuring that Ghanaians have easy access to public information, the Commission aims to empower citizens, enhance public participation, and foster good governance at all levels.

One of the key highlights of the strategic plan is the Commission’s commitment to strengthening its capacity in processing transparency requests promptly and efficiently. With the aim of eliminating bureaucratic red tape and delays, the Commission will develop streamlined processes and invest in advanced technology to facilitate the timely release of information.

To achieve its goals, the Commission will also focus on capacity-building initiatives targeting both public servants and citizens. Through training programs and public awareness campaigns, the Commission aims to enhance the understanding of the right to information, ensuring that both requesters and public institutions are well-informed on their rights and responsibilities.

Furthermore, the strategic plan emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships with stakeholders, including civil society organizations and the media. By fostering synergies among key actors, the Commission aims to create a network of advocates for transparency and accountability, amplifying its impact and nurturing a culture of open governance.

The launch of the strategic plan marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey towards cultivating an open and transparent society and the Commission’s commitment to promoting access to information aligns perfectly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

The government, civil society, and citizens all have a role to play in guaranteeing the successful implementation of the Commission’s strategic plan. Commitment, collaboration, and vigilance are crucial in transforming the right to information into a tangible reality that translates into accountable and responsive governance.

The launch of the strategic plan by the Commission, sets the stage for a new era of openness and transparency in governance. By empowering citizens, enhancing public participation, and strengthening accountability mechanisms, Ghana takes a significant step towards building a just and inclusive society where information is readily accessible to all.