The 74th UN General Assembly (UNGA) with the sponsorship of Uganda and 28 other UN member states, on October 15, 2019, proclaimed 28th September as the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI). Specific to Uganda, Article 41 of the Constitution guarantees citizens access to information whereas the Access to Information Act (ATIA) was adopted in 2015 and regulations enacted in 2011. Annually, UNESCO leads the global commemoration of the International Day of Universal Access to Information-(IDUAI) under different themes.
This year’s (2023) global theme is ‘’the Importance of the online space for access to information’’ an important theme that is timely and resonates with Uganda’s recently launched digital transformation road map. This road map commits that 95% of government services will move online, 90% of Uganda covered by broadband, 90% of citizens accessing services online and 90% of SMEs and other private institutions connected to internet whereas 60% of the country will be utilizing local ICT products and services by government and private sector.
Africa Freedom of Information Centre in collaboration with Ministry of ICT& National Guidance, Makerere University Department of Journalism and Twaweza East Africa commemorated the International Day of Universal Access to Information 2023 by holding an event aimed at promoting free and secure online space and digital access to information, while aligning with Uganda’s commitment to digital transformation.
Specific objectives
The celebrations organised by AFIC aimed to;
- Increase awareness and knowledge about Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap. The objectives, strategies of its realization and what is in there for an ordinary citizen of Uganda.
- To increase awareness on Access-To-Information as a right and a public good.
- To promote local ICT, strategies and tools to ensure 60% of the country utilizes local ICT products and services.
Ms. Mable Twegumye Zaake, senior News Anchor, Next Media Group was the master of ceremonies for this event. She highlighted that everyone has a right to Seek, receive and impart information and therefore, we all play a role in our communities to make sure that information is received and well utilized. Participants were requested to talk about the role they play in terms of seeking, receiving and imparting of information. Notably, most youth seek information from the internet. The importance of this session was to remind all that they must play a part when it comes to information access. She proceeded by requesting all participants to stand and sing the national anthem, followed by prayer.
Presentations
Ms. Charity Komujjurizi; Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator AFIC
On behalf of Mr. Gilbert Sendugwa (Executive Director AFIC), Ms. Charity Komujjurizi observed protocol by recognizing the presence of The Minister of State for National Guidance, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku, Commissioner; Uganda Human Rights Commission, Mr. Crispin Kugiza Kaheru, Hon. Members of Parliament, The Country Representative; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Permanent Secretaries & Senior Government Officials, Academia, Business, Media and Civil Society leaders. She welcomed all participants to the commemoration of the fourth International Day for Universal Access to Information organized by Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) in partnership with Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, Twaweza East Africa and Makerere University Department of Journalism and Communication. She highlighted that this year’s commemoration is being celebrated globally under the theme, “the importance of online space for access to information’’. In her remarks, the following were emphasized;
- The internet has become a critical means to enable citizens access information from government to aid their engagement on development issues. It has become a reasonable expectation by citizens that every week cabinet communicates key decisions made by government
- Social media platforms such as Facebook have become the country’s largest shopping mall where thousands of “bazukulu” sell their products or services without worrying about office rent or being stuck in Kampala’s crowded and crazy traffic jam.
- However, in Uganda 33,812, 334 people or 75.8% of the population do not have access to the internet because of where they live or what they do for a living; while government has made significant efforts to reduce the cost of internet it remains unaffordable.
- Unequal access to information is still a daunting challenge. While we applaud UNESCO and the African Union’s strides, the numbers reveal that we have miles to go.
- There is a general declining state of press freedom on the continent of Africa, Uganda inclusive; where leaders and ruling parties are mounting restrictions on the activities of civil society organizations, media houses and journalists
- In turn, disinformation, cyberbullying, criminalization of speech online, internet shutdowns, arrests and prosecution of social media users, and abuse of citizens’ data rights (see link to full speech)
Mr. John Baptist Imokola, lecturer: Makerere University Department of Journalism
On behalf of Dr. Aisha Nakiwaala, Head of Journalism and communications Department, Makerere University, Mr. Imokola thanked AFIC, partners and sponsors of the event, their collaboration with the journalism department and for the job well done. He mentioned that as a department, they are one of the premier journalism and communication Training institutions in the whole continent and pride themselves in trying to champion a conducive environment for journalists, communicators and also for the media. This goes beyond access to information but also translates into general access of relevant information to the citizenry. He urged participants to reflect on how far we have come as a country in terms of access to information. Such events provide platforms that allow journalism students to have conversations around these issues and to learn about their profession outside the classroom setting. He applauded the theme and reiterated that it was timely and important. Notably, there are attempts by government to restrict access to information online and interrupt their performance and this ultimately impedes development. He sighted an example of Facebook and its closure and mentioned that such acts are retrogressive. He urged the participants to come up with solutions on how we can improve access to information on online platforms.
Honorable Hajjat Safia Nalule; Chairperson, Equal Opportunities Commission
She applauded AFIC and partners for organizing the event and thanked them particularly for obtaining sign language interpreters. She however mentioned that the venue had been hard for her to access and advised the organizers to consider persons with physical impairments and obtain places that are easily accessible to all. She highlighted that we now live in a digital world and there is no turning back. Covid 19 pandemic was bad but helped accelerate the use of the digital space which has made information access possible. She advised that all information should be in accessible formats and places to include people with disabilities. Information should also be relevant, affordable, timely and should facilitate development on all levels. She hoped that the participants would ultimately come up with strategic and practical recommendations on how people can access relevant information so that everybody can participate in the development process. She informed the meeting about the vote specific guidelines developed at the equal opportunities commission and encouraged everybody to have a share in order to single out anything left out; to ascertain whether the different sectors of government are providing specific measures to equalize opportunities for vulnerable groups like women, people with disabilities, those living on islands and other groups as provided for in the Public Finance Management Act.
Presentation on Citizens’ perspectives on access to information. Ms. Marie Nanyanzi; Senior Program Officer Twaweza East Africa.
Twaweza works on enabling citizens to exercise agency and governments to be more open and responsive. The Non-profit organization operates in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Twaweza did research on citizen’s views and experiences of access to information in Uganda and compiled a report. This brief presents data on Ugandan citizens’ experiences and views on the media and freedom of expression. Which forms of media do citizens consume most, and which do they trust most? Do they trust information provided by public officials? Do they value their right to freedom of expression, and do they feel that this right is respected in practice? How do citizens feel the media performs in practice, and would they personally feel comfortable being interviewed by a journalist?
Data for the brief came from Twaweza’s Sauti za Wananchi, a nationally-representative, high frequency mobile phone panel survey. Information on the overall methodology is available at www.twaweza.org/sauti, and more detail on panel members can be found in the brief introducing the second panel3. For this brief, data were collected from 2,749 respondents in the fourth round of calls to the second Sauti za Wananchi panel, conducted between 10 January and 3 February 2023. The key findings are:
- Radio is declining as citizens’ primary source of information, but remains well ahead of other forms of media
- Media habits vary considerably across demographic groups
- Ugandans have most trust in information heard on the radio
- Ugandans are most likely to trust information from religious leaders, and least likely to trust it from opposition party figures
- Almost all citizens agree that citizens should be free to criticise MPs and national leaders, but many don’t feel that this right is respected in practice
- Public support for freedom of expression and access to information is consistently high, and rising Ugandans believe the national media play a valuable and constructive role in national life Ugandans are consistently positive about radio and radio journalists in Uganda, and somewhat uncertain about other forms of media
- Most Ugandans would be comfortable being interviewed by a journalist (see link to full brief)
The following sessions were moderated by Ms. Catherine Ageno
Keynote Address-UNESCO, Ms. Polly Pauline Achora
She observed all protocol and mentioned that she was honored to attend the commemoration of the international day of Universal access to information. UNESCO works to protect and promote access to information as a fundamental Human right and an essential step towards attainment of the sustainable Development Goals, particularly goal 16. Everyone has a fundamental right to pursue, receive and distribute information.; this is connected to the right to free speech. The right to information is necessary for making decisions, participating in democratic governance and increasing openness which gives citizens access to information about how their government operates. It lays the foundation for the struggle in the fight against corruption. Access to information is the right to request, receive and share information help by public agencies. It is often hard for the media fraternity to access such information due to bureaucracy that is available in the government system. Information plays an essential role in democratic societies; it helps debunk lies and counter disinformation, it undermines hate speech and encourages inter cultural understanding. It helps combat extremism and promotes inform decision making and enhance transparency and accountability.
For universal access to information, UNESCO does the following;
- Monitoring and reporting on this declaration
- International program for development of communication; promotes media development within 3rd world counties, countries in conflict, and those in transition
- Information for all programs; this is a UNESCO inter-governmental program that supports member states in fostering equitable societies to promote access to information
- UNESCO works to promote freedom of expression online.
Areas to reflect on include;
- Internet shut down and restrictions
- Internet disruptions and its impact on access to information
- Role of the judiciary
- Role of information commissions in protecting the access to information in the context of internet shut downs and restrictions
It is important all individuals are able to see, receive and disseminate information freely for it’s a human right. Therefore, information offered should be diverse and available in multiple languages and formats. UNESCO therefore calls on countries around the world to embrace information as a global public good.
Official Opening: Chief Guest; Minister of State for National Guidance,
Hon. Kabyanga Godfrey Baluku, represented by Mr. Kambarage Kakonge
On behalf of the Minister of State for National Guidance, Hon. Kabyanga Godfrey Baluku, Mr. Kambarage Kakonge observed all protocol and emphasized that we not only celebrate the progress we’ve made as a nation but also take a step back to understand the critical role that information plays in the development and transformation of our society. This year’s theme aligns perfectly with the core belief and role as a Ministry: Information is the cornerstone of any progressive society and without free access to information, true democracy, transparent governance, and genuine development remain elusive dreams.
In line with this, our government, through the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, has embarked on an ambitious journey to digitally transform Uganda. Our current roadmap to digital transformation is not just a vision on paper, but a working strategy being brought to life each day.
A few key initiatives under this roadmap include:
- Digital Literacy Programs: Focusing on ensuring that our youth and even our elders are digitally aware, ensuring that they not only consume but produce digital content relevant to our context.
- Digital Infrastructure: Expanding internet accessibility to the most remote areas of our nation, ensuring that every Ugandan can tap into the global digital economy.
- Government e-Services: Simplifying the processes and making them transparent by digitizing public services, making it easier for citizens to interact with their government
Presentation on importance and experiences of the online space for access to information. Mr. Robert Ssempala; Executive Director Human Rights Network for Journalists, Uganda
He observed all protocol and intimated that he was honoured to be part of such a memorable day. Online access to information allows us a better transparent society that is accountable. We are able to do research online and also hold our leaders accountable. It is also very good for social interaction which in turn avails an informed citizenry. Online engagements save time as one does not have to move constantly to seek, receive and disseminate information. It is essential for growing our digital economy, where we all congregate without meeting physically. According to the Twaweza report, information obtained by word of mouth constitutes 17%.
However, internet shut downs have crippled access to information from online platforms, with Facebook being a case in point. He made a humble passionate call to the regulators to reinstate Facebook as it is one of the key areas to access relevant informative information. The internet should also be made affordable to most in terms of penetration, connectivity and cost so that everybody can enjoy the right to access information.
Sharing Experiences on Digital service delivery; The Executive Director, Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority; Ms. Mulema Doreen Kyaaze
She observed all protocol and re-echoed that access to information is a fundamental right that should be enjoyed by all. PPDA focuses on 4 strategic areas as listed below;
- Strengthening regulation of the public procurement system
- Enhancement of stake holder engagement
- Strengthening institutional and management capacity
- Leverage technology efficiency
To achieve this vison, PPDA encourages ordinary citizens to enhance participation in public procurement. The citizens of Uganda have a key role in ensuring that their leaders provide services that are commensurate to the resources allocated to them. The PPDA recognizes the importance of online space for access to information and one of the ways it is doing this is by promoting open contracting; which is publishing and encouraging the use of open, accessible and timely information on all government contracts as a way of engaging ordinary citizens. This will ensure transparency and effective delivery of services. The following aspects are important to PPDA; disclosure of information, participation of citizens; making information available in a usable format and accountability; making information actionable. With this, the Authority aims to achieve the following;
- Promoting a complete procurement cycle and transparency in the process
- Improving trust amongst government and the ordinary citizen
- Improving project ownership in communities
- Fostering gender responsive public procurement
- Promoting equity and equality
- Effective service delivery
- Easier and more efficient oversight processes
- Better and fair competition
To ensure universal access to information, the authority has put tools in place;
- Electronic government procurement system
- Contract monitoring system
- The government procurement portal
- The contractors reference portal
The Authority believes that with all these tools in place, there will be value for money, prompt delivery of services, creation of a level playing field, improve competition and public integrity, save government money and improve the delivery of goods and services
Commissioner Crispin Kaheru; Uganda Human Rights Commission
On behalf of the chairperson, Uganda Human Rights Commission, Commissioner Crispin Kaheru observed all protocol and thanked AFIC for organizing the meeting. Access to information and the attendant issues such as navigating the digital space, are topics of great importance in today’s evolving world. In this age of the digital revolution, the internet has emerged as an indispensable tool. It serves as a gateway to knowledge, a platform for communication, and a catalyst for socio-economic progress. We must acknowledge the pivotal role that the online space plays in advancing socio-economic transformation. He highlighted some challenges when it comes to internet use as listed below;
- Lack of access to phones and laptops especially in rural areas
- Poverty; online services are expensive
- Inequality especially among vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities and girls
We must also continually address the challenges of this digital era, including issues of misinformation, digital security, and access disparities.
- Children today, are particularly vulnerable to inappropriate online content;
- Hate speech is being fueled by the anonymity of the internet;
- Mental health challenges have sometimes resulted from cyber bullying;
- Online fake news, misinformation and disinformation has captured the power to poison minds, divide communities, and incite real-world violence.
There is need to build bridges and foster understanding between diverse groups for example government, civil society organizations, cultural and religious leaders and engage them in an on-going basis and facilitate discussions to address these challenges. As the old saying goes, ‘Information/ Knowledge is power.’ Without information there is darkness. It is therefore a collective responsibility to address the current digital divide (see link to full speech)
Panel Discussion
This session was moderated by Mabel Zaake who invited the panelists to take their seats at the podium.
Panelists:
- Mr. Muhame Giles: CEO Chimp Reports
- Mr. Joshua Akandwanaho- NITA-U
- Ms. Goretti Zavuga Amuriat
- Mr. Ocheru Micheal; Assistant commissioner E-services, Ministry of ICT and National Guidance
- Dr. Adolf Mbaine; Senior lecturer Makerere University Journalism and Communication Department
- Mr. Alex Atuhaire; Executive member Editors Guild
Please share with us your experience of what you feel the online spaces have actually transformed the society within which you carry out your responsibilities.
Mr. Muhame Giles: in the past, media was reserved for the elite; in most rural areas, access to radio stations was not easy but now we see more inclusivity. The online platforms have given people from all walks of life space to contribute and discuss issues that affect them, thereby enhancing freedom of speech. People criticize government and hold leaders accountable; reference was made to the pot hole campaign. The increased internet penetration places information at people’s finger tips regardless of their geographical location, social and economic status.
Ms. Goretti Zavuga Amuriat; from a women perspective, 80% live in rural areas and do not access online information due to lack of phones, illiteracy and lack of skills, cost of internet is high and general lack of devices. They are affected by gender issues and in most household, men own the devices.
Mr. Ocheru Micheal: the government is engaging and putting systems in place to reach women at grass root levels; one intervention in place is to reduce the cost of information by putting the innovation hub in place where the cost of development of systems has reduced for example the E- docs. The cost of the internet is to be lowered by the ministry and this is in process. The government has set up ICT pubs such that we can develop systems locally to reduce on cost of devices.
How have the higher institutions of learning embraced the technological advancement of the digital edge to make sure that our institutions can access information easily?
Dr. Adolf Mbaine: the higher institutions of learning are doing their best in an environment with very limited resources. The curriculum needs to be improved to equip students to ensure that they have the minimum skills to use in the world of advance technology. Basic IT has been integrated into the curriculum already. Every 3 years, the curriculum is reviewed and courses like computer science are incorporated alongside other multimedia skills.
Are online spaces threatening traditional media? If so, how are you mitigating the risks and threats that are coming in from online spaces?
Mr. Alex Atuhaire: The government does not send a good signal when it closes online platforms and disrupts flow of information. Impactful information is important but is not independent as other factors come into play.
What is the biggest challenge that you face as a managing director of an online business like chimp reports and what could be the solution?
Mr. Muhame Giles: Corporate interests since one is supposed to report very truthfully is the biggest challenge; for example, big telecoms expect you to report information as is. The solution would be a subscription model so that we operate more independently of the corporate interests.
Ms. Goretti Zavuga Amuriat: there is need for funding for continuous sensitization and ensuring all people are brought on board. There is need for continuous advocacy and awareness raising in the areas of information access and what it entails.
Mr. Alex Atuhaire: Infrastructure is the biggest challenge and this can be addressed by aggressively investing in that area so that information access is uniform to all without segregation.
Dr. Adolf Mbaine: Policies and regulatory frameworks are narrowly defined and often times lead nowhere. We need to look at journalism and information as opportunities for the country rather than problems. We should improve and sustain good journalism.
Mr. Ocheru Micheal: departments of ICT are being set up in all local governments such that all programs roll down to grass root levels. There are major interventions in terms of lowering cost of internet. Other interventions include skilling; government has supported various labs in schools to improve ICT skills. Innovation programs are moving to universities and we hope for transformation in the next few years.
Closing remarks
Dr. Gerald Walulya
He thanked all speakers for their generous and informative contributions. He applauded AFIC, partners and sponsors for the job well done. He thanked all participants for setting aside their busy schedules to attend the event. He invited participants for a group photo and declared the event officially closed.
