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.