Ghana took a significant stride towards enhancing transparency and accountability with the implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) Act. To assess the progress made in the past four years, the Ministry of Information, in partnership with the RTI Commission and the Information Services Department, organized a highly informative public forum at the British Council in Accra on 13th December, 2023.

The event began with a warm welcome address from Mrs. Charlotte Morgan-Asiedu, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Information, highlighting the significance of the RTI Act in promoting democratic values and ensuring citizens’ access to information. Subsequently, Hon. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Minister for Information, shed light on the achievements and challenges encountered during the implementation process.

One crucial message reiterated by the Minister was that the right to information is fundamental and should not be treated as a privilege. He urged Heads of Public Institutions to release information when requested, unless it falls under exemptions specified in Act 989.

A panel discussion comprised of Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq. (Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission), Zakaria Tanko Musah (Lecturer/ Private Legal Practitioner), Dr. Winnifred Nafisa Mahama (Head of Access to Information Division) and Hon. Alhaji Ben Abdullah Banda Esq.(Presidential Coordinator, Zongo and Inner Cities Development Secretariat), provided valuable insights on Ghana’s journey in implementing the RTI Act (Act 989). The discussion was moderated by a Lawyer and Media Practitioner, Samson Lardi Ayenini. Attendees had the opportunity to pose questions, ensuring clarity and addressing any doubts regarding the Act.

Miss Oboshie Sai-Coffie, Presidential Advisor on Media and Strategic Communication, praised both the RTI Commission and the Ministry for their efforts in ensuring the successful implementation of the RTI law in Ghana. She acknowledged the positive impact the Act has had on fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

In his closing remarks, David Owusu Amoah, Director of the Information Services Department, reiterated the importance of embracing the principles underlying the RTI Act. He emphasized that access to information plays a pivotal role in promoting good governance, public participation, and accountability.

The event yielded an opportunity for stakeholders, including Members of the RTI Commission led by Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori Atta, to reflect on Ghana’s achievements and challenges in implementing the RTI Act. The forum showcased the government’s commitment to transparency and encouraged citizens to exercise their right to access information, ultimately bolstering democratic principles.

With the continuous efforts of the Commission and its partners, Ghana is poised to witness a more transparent and accountable system.