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Ghana to Host 2024 Global Conference for International Day for Universal Access to Information
By: Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran,ISD
UNESCO have selected Ghana to host the 2024 Global Conference of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) from 1 to 2 October, 2024 in Accra.
The two-day event themed “Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation across the Public Sector” is a significant recognition that serves as a testament to the progress in promoting Ghana’s right to information.
The Minister for Information, Madam Fatimatu Abubakar announced this during a press briefing in Accra today, adding that it marks an important phase in Ghana’s journey toward improved public access to information.
She said despite the 1992 Constitution granting the right to access information, it was not until March 26, 2019, that the RTI Law was passed by Parliament, following years of advocacy and several drafts. Implementation began in 2020, with notable progress since then.
“We have established the Access to Information Division (ATID) within the Information Services Department, coordinating the creation of information units in public institutions and the recruitment and training of 350 RTI officers nationwide.
These officers are the frontline facilitators who uphold the public’s right to access information,” she added.
According to Madam Abubakar, The Right to Information Commission, equipped with necessary resources, logistics, and staff, serves as the regulatory body ensuring compliance and addressing grievances.
She said in collaboration with UNESCO, ATID has also enhanced the capacity of RTI officers through a certified online course on access to information.
“The 2024 Global Conference marks the first time this celebration is hosted by an African Member State, providing an opportunity to highlight successful access to information practices on the continent”, she added.
Madam Abubakar emphasized the significance of hosting the conference, saying, “Hosting the 2024 Global Conference is not only a recognition of our efforts but also a call to action to continue advancing the frontiers of transparency and accountability.”
She expressed gratitude to UNESCO and all stakeholders, public servants, and citizens who have contributed to the RTI journey.
“Together, let us make the 2024 Global Conference of the International Day for Universal Access to Information a landmark event that will inspire and propel us towards even greater transparency and empowerment”, she added.
On his part, the representative for UNESCO Ghana, Mr. Yakub Abdul Hamid, highlighted the critical importance of access to information in fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusive societies.
He said this year’s conference will include a high-level Inter-Ministerial panel discussion to improve mainstream access to information across the Government sectors.
Mr. Hamid pointed out that access to information empowers citizens to participate meaningfully in governance and decision-making processes.
He said UNESCO is confident of an eventful conference and encouraged all stakeholders to collaborate in creating and maintaining an environment where information is freely accessible.