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.