In line with its commitment to promoting transparency and accountability, the Right to Information Commission has held a successful Public Lecture as part of its Nationwide Regional Sensitization Program yesterday, November 13, 2023. The event, which took place at the Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School in the Upper East Region, aimed to educate Heads of Institutions, Students, and the General Public on the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).

The Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Rtd) K. A. Ofori Atta, delivered a warm welcome address, emphasizing the significance of the right to information in fostering an informed and empowered society. The Mayor for Bolgatanga, Hon. Rex Asango, gave opening remarks on behalf of the Upper East Minister, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability at all levels.

The Executive Secretary of the RTI Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., provided a detailed overview of Act 989, allowing participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of their rights and obligations under the law. The interactive session provided an opportunity for attendees to ask questions and seek clarification on any concerns they had regarding the RTI law in Ghana.

The engagement of participants was evident as they actively participated in the discussion, highlighting the relevance of the Right to Information Act in facilitating access to government information and promoting good governance. The closing remarks were delivered by Nana Kwame Duah, a Member of the Board, who emphasized the role of the public in demanding transparency and accountability from institutions. He also expressed gratitude to all attendees and reiterated the Commission’s commitment to promoting the right to information throughout Ghana.

Prior to the public lecture, the Commission paid a courtesy call on the Regional Minister at the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council. The visit further reinforced the government’s support for the Commission and its mission to enhance transparency and accountability in the Upper East Region. The readiness of the Regional Minister to allocate an office space for the Commission reflects the collaborative efforts between the government and the Commission in ensuring the effective implementation of the Right to Information Act.