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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.

The Board Members, Management and Legislative Instrument (L. I.) Committee of the Right to Information Commission is currently climaxing its two day meeting in shaping the Draft LI of the Commission.

The objective of this gathering is to address the various inputs received from other institutions and concentrate on shaping the Draft LI (Legal Instrument) for enhanced transparency and governance in Ghana.

The meeting which began on July 12, 2023 and ends on July 13, 2023 brings together members from diversified backgrounds, aiming to create an inclusive environment that encourages open dialogue and knowledge sharing.

The Right to Information Commission has been crucial in championing the rights of citizens to have access to accurate information, empowering them to make informed decisions and hold public institutions accountable.

The agenda for this Two-Day engagement meeting primarily revolves around the thorough consideration of inputs from various institutions related to the Draft LI. Participants delved into the suggested revisions, recommendations, and additions brought forward by these institutions. Such extensive engagement is essential to ensure that the LI accurately reflects the needs and expectations of all stakeholders involved.

The Draft LI holds the power to shape the future of governance and transparency in Ghana. It will establish a comprehensive framework that facilitates the easy and efficient flow of information between institutions and citizens. By enabling open access to relevant information, the Draft LI when pass, will contribute to informed decision-making, heighten accountability, and foster trust between institutions and the public they serve.

Notably, this meeting signifies a crucial step in the collaborative efforts of different institutions, emphasizing the collective responsibility of stakeholders towards implementing effective governance practices. The Two-Day engagement meeting not only offered a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences but also provided an opportunity for discourse that fosters consensus-building and synergy among various stakeholders.

The Board, Management, and LI Committee engagement meeting aims at shaping the future governance framework of Ghana. With the collective wisdom and expertise of stakeholders, this gathering promises to deliver an LI that responds to the dynamic needs of society, promotes informed decision-making, and strengthens public trust.

The 14th Edition of the International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) climaxes its activities in the Philippines today, June 21, 2023. The conference brought together information commissioners from around the world to discuss pertinent issues with regards to the role of Information Commissioners in promoting access to information.

It is worthy of note that this year’s conference was greatly attended by the African Information Commissioners. Their participation made up a significant number of the attendees. Representatives from the African Region included;

The Right to Information Commission of Ghana represented by the Executive Secretary and the Secretary to the Board of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., and Ms. Kate Swanzy respectively.

South Africa, represented by Adv. Pansy Tlakula, Chairperson, Information Regulator and Chairperson for the Africa Region (ANIC), Lebogang Stroom-Nzama, Commissioner of the Information Regulator and Ntsumbedzeni Nemasisi, Commissioner of the Information Regulator of South Africa.

Kenya, represented by the Commissioner, Access to Information Commission on Administrative Justice, Lucy Ndungu.

Malawi, represented by the Human Rights Commissioner, Rosemary Kanyuka and Head of Access to Information unit at the Malawi Human Rights Commission, Chance Kalolokesya.

Tunisia, represented by the President of Access to Information Authority, Adnene Lassoued.

Other member countries who did not have representation physically, joined virtually and shared their experiences. African Commissioners’ participation during this 14th Edition of the ICIC both virtually and in-person, is a reflection of the growing importance of democracy in Africa, with many countries recognizing the importance of Right to Information Laws.

The conference provided a valuable platform for African Information Commissioners to share their experiences and insights with their counterparts from other regions in relation to common challenges and opportunities, best practices and innovative approaches to access to information. Other key issues discussed included ways to support member countries in their implementation of the RTI Law, funding for the charter and Capacity building.

Overall, the 14th Edition of the ICIC was a valuable opportunity for Information Commissioners from around the world. The broad participation of African Information Commissioners was particularly significant, reflecting the growing importance of access to information in Africa and the need for collaboration and co-operation on a global scale.

The International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) is currently underway in the Philippines, and one of the most important events at the conference was the meeting of the African region. This gathering provided an opportunity for African Information Commissioners to come together and discuss the challenges and opportunities they face in their respective countries.

The meeting was observed by the Bermuda Information Commissioner, Gitanjali S. Gutierrez and was chaired by the Chairperson of the African Network of Information Commissioners (ANIC) and the Information Regulator of South Africa, Adv. Pansy Tlakula. Executive members of ANIC including the Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission of Ghana, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the Information Commissioner for Kenya, Lucy Ndungu were present at the meeting as well as representatives from other member countries.

One of the key issues that emerged, was the importance of supporting each member state in developing its Information Management Systems. This support could take various forms, including the provision of technical expertise and assistance in the development of policies and guidelines.

Another crucial topic of discussion was the development of strategies aimed at encouraging the effective implementation of the RTI LAW in member countries. The Commissioners recognized that the passage of the law was just the first step, and there was a need for concerted effort to ensure that the law was implemented in practice. They discussed the importance of these strategies and their use in monitoring compliance with the law, as well as the need for public campaigns geared at raising awareness of citizens’ rights with regards to access to information held by public bodies.

Funding for the charter was also a key issue discussed at the meeting. The Commissioners recognized the development and implementation of effective information management systems required significant financial resources. They discussed the importance of exploring various funding mechanisms, including public-private partnerships, to support the activities of RTI Commissions across the continent.

Finally, the Commissioners discussed the need for capacity building initiatives to support the development of effective implementations of the law. They recognized that many countries in the region lacked the technical expertise and resources necessary to develop and implement effective policies and practices. They emphasized the importance of developing programs that could provide training and support the Commissions of ANIC members.

The Right to Information Commission (RTIC) of Ghana is currently attending the International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) in the Philippines. This conference is an important gathering of Information Commissioners and Ombudsmen from around the world, who come together to share their experiences, best practices and challenges in promoting access to information.

The theme of this year’s ICIC conference is “Access to Information: Building Back Better for a World That Works”. The conference is focused on exploring the role of information commissioners in promoting access to information.

The conference is an opportunity for the RTIC of Ghana to learn from other information commissioners from around the world, and to share their experiences and challenges in promoting access to information in Ghana. It is also an opportunity for the commission to showcase the progress they have made since their establishment in 2019.

Participating in international conferences such as the ICIC is important for the RTIC of Ghana as it helps the Commission to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and best practices in promoting access to information. It also provides an opportunity for the Commission to network and build relationships with other information commissioners from around the world, which can be valuable in promoting international cooperation in the area of access to information.

The RTIC of Ghana’s participation in the ICIC conference is a positive step towards promoting access to information and transparency in the public sector in Ghana.

The Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng earlier moderated on a topic: “The Role of Access to Information in Development.” from 13:30pm to 14:30pm Philippines time.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. and Secretary to the Board of the Commission, Ms. Kate Swanzy are the representatives of RTIC of Ghana in the ongoing ICIC.

The Conference is expected to end on 21st June, 2023.

The Right to Information Commission, Ghana participated in the just ended Regional Meeting of Africa Network of Information Commissions (ANIC) held on June 6 and June 7, 2023 at the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya.

The Two day Regional meeting which was organized by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) brought together delegates from different parts of the Africa continent to discuss key issues affecting access to information in Africa.

The conference was themed “Strengthening Access to Information in Africa.” During the conference, participants discussed various aspects of access to information, including the role of Information Commissions in promoting the right to information, challenges, and best practices in implementing access to information laws, among others.

The conference was graced by several high-profile personalities, including Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, UNESCO, Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and Co-Convener of Open Government Partnership for Kenya, Dr. Abraham Korir Sing’oei who delivered the opening remarks. Other notable speakers included Director of Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission, Ms. Leslie Richer and ANIC’s Chairperson and Chairperson of the Information Regulator of South Africa, Adv. Pansy Tlakula.

One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation of the ANIC 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, which outlines the organization’s vision, mission, and core values. The strategic plan also identified key goals, objectives, and activities that the organization intends to undertake to achieve its objectives.

Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission, Ghana, together with Mr. Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director of Africa Freedom of Information Centre presented on the ANIC website and discussion on Internal and External Communication Strategy of ANIC.

Other key topics discussed included cybersecurity, open data, the role of media in promoting transparency and accountability, and the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in ensuring access to information in Africa.

The conference provided a platform for participants to share experiences and exchange ideas on how to strengthen access to information in Africa. Participants also had an opportunity to network and establish partnerships that will be critical to promoting the right to access information in the continent.

The Right to Information Commission as part of its 2023 strategic plan of promoting the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) will be embarking on a massive institutional sensitisation exercise. Both Public Institutions and other relevant Private Institutions will be sensitised as enshrined in Act 989.

This exercise is geared towards intensifying an institutional sensitisation drive which commenced in 2022 and also ensure public institutions and relevant private bodies are abreast with the law to aid in its smooth implementation especially regarding Enforcement, Investigations and Compliance.

The Commission began this year’s exercise on a positive note and has so far sensitised Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly Assembly Hospital, Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly, Ghana Communication Technology University,Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Landscape Restoration for Small Scale and Illegal Miners and National Alternative Empowerment and Livelihood Program for Illegal Miners.

These institutions were taken through the functions of the Commission and its duties, Access to official information, Compilation and Publication of Information Manuals, Exempt information, Procedure for Access to information, Internal Reviews and Appeals, among other key provisions of the Act.

Heads of institutions, Management, as well as staff participated in these exercises. The programmes were well attended and participants sought clarification and answers to pertinent questions about the Act from facilitators from the Right to Information Commission.

The management of the Right to Information Commission has commenced a 3 day management retreat to discuss and finalize the Strategic short and long term vision for the Commission.

Opening the program on Wednesday the 29th of March 2023, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., noted that it was imperative for the Commission’s management to meet regularly to keep themselves up to date on the activities of the Commission.

He stressed that such retreats afford leadership the opportunity to take a retrospective look at the previous year’s performance, put mechanisms in place to address challenges that the Commission faced and plan for the future

The Executive Secretary in his remarks enumerated some priority issues that needed to be addressed. These include:
•Departmental Work plan and achievements so far

•Presentation and Discussion on Employee Engagement Survey Responses

• Presentation of short and long term Strategic Vision/Goals of each Department

•Strategic Plan of the Commission II

• Any other related matters

On the 2nd day of this all important retreat, management was joined by the Senior Managers for effective discussions on the work plans of their various departments.

Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., implored management and senior managers after the discussions and presentations to ensure that they effectively communicate the collective and agreed upon targets to their various departments and units. This is to ensure all staff would work together towards the common goal for the growth of the Commission

The Executive Secretary thanked management and senior managers for their immense support over the years that has enhanced the work of the Commission and called on members of management to continue putting in their best for the Commission.

The retreat is expected to continue and end on the 31st of March, 2023.

The Minister of Information and Member of Parliament for Ofoase Ayirebi, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah on 10th May, 2023 paid a working visit to the Right to Information Commission ( “The Commission”) to ascertain thus far, the progress of the Commission in the implementation of the Right to Information law, 2019 (Act 989)

The Commission, led by its Board Chairman, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori-Atta and other members of the board including the Executive Secretary of the Commission, welcomed the Minister. The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. briefed the Minister on the progress made by the Commission since its establishment.

Emphasising on the progress of the Commission, the Executive Secretary outlined the following:
The recruitment of staff for the Commission. The Commission has so far sensitized Ten (10) out of the Sixteen (16) regions in the country as well as some Public Institutions and relevant Private Bodies. The Commission plans of opening Regional offices for the Bono and Ashanti Regions which is expected to be commissioned by the end of 2023. The Commission has participated in International Conference of Information Commissioners, the Executive Secretary Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. being elected as an Executive Member of the African Network of Information Commissions. The various determinations of the Commission and administrative penalties imposed on institutions that are not in compliance with Act 989 and the Commission’s orders among others.

Mr. Yaw Sarpong Boateng indicated that the Commission, in its quest to be flexible and not make things too complex, has employed the use Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to settle some cases that has come before it.

Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., further indicated that the Attorney General’s Department issued a fiat for the Commission to have prosecutorial powers to enable it prosecute offences under Act 989. To this end, the Commission in collaboration with the Attorney General’s Department trained some staff to undertake the role as prosecutors.

The Minister was enthused with the work of the Commission and commended the governing board and management of the Commission for such an impressive output.
The Minister was accompanied by Dr. Nafisa Mahama, Head of Access To Information(ATI) Division and other staff of the Information Ministry.