Civil Society Letter to States Parties to United Nations Convention against Corruption
La version française de ce document est disponible ci-dessous. La versión en castellano de este documento está disponible a continuación del francés. ——————————————————————————————————————— Distinguished Delegates to the 11 th Conference of the States Parties to United Nations Convention against Corruption (Doha, 15 to 19 December 2025): Commit to integrity in the funding of political parties […]
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Promoting Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in East Africa: AFIC Launches New UNESCO–IPDC Project
The Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has embarked on a new 12-month initiative with support from UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC). The project, “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in East Africa through the Universal Periodic Review (UPR),” will strengthen the capacity of journalists, civil society organisations (CSOs), […]
Read MoreReclaiming Our Data Futures: AFIC Leads Community Dialogue on ACHPR Resolution 620 at DataFest Africa 2025
As Africa enters a decisive era for digital rights, more people have turned to digital platforms to exercise their rights to expression and association. However, governments have responded with increasing digital repression. DataFest Africa 2025, an initiative by Pollicy, has emerged as a vital space for reimagining how data should serve communities not institutions, corporations, […]
Read MoreUganda Marks IDUAI 2025 with a Call for Digital Accessibility to Public Information
The music filled the room with warmth. The rhythm within began to bring the place to life despite the grey quiet morning outside. One by one, journalists with cameras, corporates in suits, and government officials in heels and tucked shirts entered each wearing a different hue of purpose and confidence. The hum of conversation filled […]
Read MoreSénégal : La promulgation de la loi sur l’accèsà l’information, une étape importante pour la transparence
Déclaration conjointe : ARTICLE 19 Sénégal et Afrique de l’Ouest et Centre africain pour la liberté d’information (AFIC) Alors que le monde commémore le dixième anniversaire de la Journée internationale de l’accès universel à l’information (JIAUI) le 28 septembre 2025, ARTICLE 19 Sénégal et Afrique de l’Ouest et le Centre africain pour la liberté […]
Read MoreJOINT STATEMENT: AFIC and ARTICLE 19 WEST AFRICA
Senegal: Access to Information Law will support transparency and accountability As the world commemorated the tenth anniversary of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on 28 September 2025, ARTICLE 19 Senegal & West Africa and the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) welcomed the historic adoption of the Access to Information […]
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AFIC to Commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025
Every year on 28th September, the world celebrates the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI)—a day that reaffirms the fundamental right of citizens to access public information as a cornerstone of transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. The 2025 global theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” holds particular significance for […]
Read MoreUN Experts Call on UNCAC States Parties to Protect Civic Space
A group of UN human rights experts recently issued a joint statement urging States Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) to protect and expand civic space in anti-corruption efforts, both nationally and globally. The experts also called for greater transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in the UNCAC review mechanism. The UNCAC Coalition welcomed […]
Read MoreCelebrating IDUAI 2025: AFIC members champion Access to Information across Africa
As the world prepares to commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025, AFIC members are leading impactful initiatives to highlight the importance of access to information in strengthening democracy, accountability, and citizen participation. South Sudan: AMDISS Advocates for Transparency and Participation The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) will […]
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Breaking barriers to Information – AFIC strengthen grassroots voices
In the lead-up to the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has been on the ground equipping journalists, civil society actors, and community change agents with the tools to demand transparency. Across districts including Rubanda, Kole, Kyenjojo, and Kamuli, AFIC has trained over 90 participants […]
Read MoreDriving Collective Impact: AFIC and members Launch Working Groups to Tackle Africa’s Governance Challenges
Across Africa, communities are demanding transparency, accountability, and inclusion in governance. Yet, despite growing commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, gaps persist. Citizens continue to face barriers to information, women and marginalized groups are excluded from opportunities, corruption undermines trust, and climate change threatens progress. To respond with […]
Read MoreBeyond the Statistic: Ugandan Youth Demand Real Opportunities on International Youth Day 2025
On International Youth Day 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined partners Twaweza, Media Challenge Initiative, Uwezo, Action for Health, and SEMA to commemorate the Youth and their contribution towards the development of Africa. During the event, new evidence from the Sauti za Wananchi survey sparked dialogue between young people and policymakers under […]
Read MoreRubanda district: Strengthening Uganda’s democracy through Access to Information
Between 4 and 8 August 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), with support from Twaweza Uganda, delivered Access to Information (ATI) trainings in Rubanda District. These sessions targeted both the demand side (civil society and journalists) and the supply side (parish chiefs and community development officers). Through building the capacity of citizens to […]
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Artificial Intelligence and safety of Journalism in Uganda; Stakeholder’s dialogue
Artificial Intelligence continues to profligate the very fabrics of society. The Information ecosystem is no exception. There is already a shift in African newsrooms. Uganda is no exception. Editors are discovering that an article can be generated in seconds. Transcriptions that once took hours now arrive with the click of a button. Headlines speak with […]
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Victory for the Press: Court Backs Journalist’s Right to Public Information
In a historic legal ruling that reverberates far beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, the High Court in Freetown has upheld the power of the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) against the Bank of Sierra Leone in a landmark freedom of information case. At the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), we believe this decision is […]
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Africa’s Billion-Dollar Opportunity in Inclusive Procurement
Across Africa, a transformative economic opportunity is hiding in plain sight and it’s worth billions. This isn’t aid, charity, or handouts. It’s inclusive procurement. When women-led businesses are funded, trained, and given a fair shot at government contracts, the economic returns are undeniable and massive. What does fair development really look like? At the recent […]
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Redefining climate finance: Why transparency and citizen engagement must take centre stage
As global leaders, development agencies, and civil society actors gathered in Seville for the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), a recurring theme echoed across sessions: the need to rethink how climate finance is delivered, tracked, and evaluated. At the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), we believe this moment represents a turning […]
Read MoreRequest for Quotation—Branded IEC Materials for AFIC
Dear supplier, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) is seeking a qualified and experienced supplier to design, produce, and deliver branded Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials as part of its institutional visibility and advocacy efforts. Kindly find below the list of required items and specifications: 📦 IEC materials required Item Description Quantity Branded Staff […]
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One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Uganda’s Slippery Media Landscape in 2024
The Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ-Uganda), a proud member of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), has released the 2024 edition of its Press Freedom Index (PFI). Titled “One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: A Slippery Media Landscape,” the report paints a sobering picture of Uganda’s press environment, exposing a troubling rise in restrictions, […]
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How One Procurement Officer Is Championing Women in Mbarara’s Public Contracts
When Mwiije Dina took over as Principal Procurement Officer for Mbarara City, she brought more than technical expertise; she brought a vision for inclusion. Thanks to Uganda’s 15% reservation policy. Targeted training initiatives. Women entrepreneurs in Mbarara are no longer spectators in public procurement. They are active players, leading businesses, securing government contracts, and reshaping […]
Read MoreStep by Step process in Public procurement
Public procurement plays a major role in Uganda’s development. From constructing roads to supplying medical equipment and running government services, billions of shillings move through public institutions every year. To ensure transparency, fairness, and value for money, the Government of Uganda through the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA)—follows a structured procurement […]
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“We’re Not Enemies”: Journalists and police at the Same Table
It started with tension in the room. On one side of the room, uniformed police officers. On the other, journalists—some of whom had once been manhandled by those very uniforms. But something remarkable happened over two days in April 2025. In a workshop convened by the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) with support from […]
Read More83rd ORDINARY SESSION OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS
📍 Banjul, The Gambia🗓 2–22 May 2025 (Public Session: 2–12 May | Closing Ceremony: 22 May) The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) is pleased to announce its upcoming 83rd Ordinary Session, taking place in Banjul, The Gambia, from 2 to 22 May 2025. This major continental event brings together African Union member […]
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Her First Win: Margarete’s Story of Registration, Risk, and Reward in Public Procurement
Margret Kyomugisha’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by a procurement training program that would forever alter her trajectory. With newfound confidence and skills, she took the leap and registered JPM Instant Solutions East Africa (JPMISEA), quickly securing her first jgovernment contract. As she transitioned from selling Irish potatoes to securing government contracts for city office cleaning […]
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Empowering Women in Business: Praise’s Journey from Mobile Money to Public Procurement Success
Praise Blender Moreen, founder and CEO of Blend Trade Links Limited, is a dynamic entrepreneur based in Mbarara, Uganda. What began as a modest career in mobile money and agency banking has evolved into a thriving enterprise that now competes successfully in public procurement. Her turning point came after a transformative workshop organized by the […]
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Scrubbing the System: Niyizana Juliet’s Journey from Clinical Officer to Uganda’s Public Procurement
For Niyizana Juliet, a clinical officer-turned-entrepreneur, the journey into public procurement seemed daunting, but with the support of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), she was able to overcome these challenges. The CEO of Definite Spotless Cleaners, a professional cleaning service in […]
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From baking at home to winning government contracts, Brenda shares her journey and advice for women entrepreneurs
Public procurement: Imagine being a talented entrepreneur, eager to grow your business and provide for your loved ones. But, despite your hard work, you’re constantly faced with barriers that prevent you from accessing the opportunities you deserve. For women-led businesses in Uganda, this was the harsh reality. Despite the government’s significant spending on public […]
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Understanding Public Procurement: How Your Tax Money is Spent
As a citizen, have you ever wondered how your tax money is spent? Do you know how the government buys goods and services for your community? In this article, we’ll explore the concept of public procurement, its importance, and how it affects you as a citizen. What is public procurement? This is the process by […]
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The Dark Side of Digital Tech: Corruption, Surveillance, and Human Rights Concerns in Africa
The use of digital technology systems, including artificial intelligence, fingerprint, and facial recognition systems, has gained significant prominence in Africa, as is the case in other regions around the world. However, the procurement and deployment of these systems have quite often been riddled with corruption and lack of transparency on the one hand and […]
Read MorePress statement: IDUAI 2024
Commemorating International Day for Universal Access to Information in Uganda 2024 Kampala, Uganda 25 September, 2024– To mark the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI), the Ministry of ICT&NG, Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communications, Ugandan Human Rights Commission, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), and Twaweza Uganda will host a […]
Read MoreAFIC Congratulates Senegal on Adopting the Access to Information Law!
The Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) warmly congratulates the Government and people of Senegal on the historic adoption of the Access to Information Law (Loi n° 2025-15 relative à l’Accès à l’Information). This progressive law guarantees the right of every person to access information held by public institutions and private bodies performing public functions, […]
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International Day for Universal Access to Information 2024: AFIC Members’ Commemorations Across the Africa
As the world gears up to celebrate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 28, 2024, various members of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) are set to engage in a series of impactful events aimed at reinforcing the importance of access to information, transparency, and accountability across the African […]
Read MoreData is Power, but Who Controls It? – Dialogue on Data Governance
“Who owns your data?” – a question that has become increasingly pertinent in Uganda’s rapidly growing digital landscape. In a world increasingly driven by data, governance over personal information has never been more critical. From online banking to health records, personal data shapes the way we interact with services, businesses, and even governments. Yet, as […]
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Why Public Procurement Disclosure is important for Development in Africa?
Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of sustainable economic growth, especially in developing regions like Africa. When it comes to public procurement, ensuring open disclosure of contracts, tenders, and expenditures plays a vital role. This is in fostering trust, reducing corruption, and driving positive change. According to recent studies, countries with transparent procurement […]
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Access to Information in Uganda: Prospects and Hurdles
Access to information is a fundamental human right essential for transparency, accountability, and empowerment. In Uganda, the landscape of information accessibility is evolving rapidly, presenting both opportunities and challenges. On 17th May, 2024, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined The Centre for Policy Analysis (CEPA) and other Civil society organisations in a one day […]
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How can governments ensure active disclosure of public information during Elections?
In times of uncertainty and change, access to accurate and timely information becomes paramount. Whether during elections or pandemics, the ability to stay informed empowers individuals to make informed decisions that can shape the future. But why and how can governments ensure active disclosure of public information during these critical moments? 💡 Transparency breeds trust: […]
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Access to Information: Understanding Your Right to Public Information
Did you know that access to public information is a fundamental right guaranteed by international, regional instruments? In today’s digital age, #transparency and #accountability is more important than ever. But what exactly can you access, and how can you leverage this right effectively? 💡 As a thought leader in your industry, it’s crucial to stay […]
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AFIC/PPDA engage media to advocate for inclusive procurement
As part of the advocacy campaign for inclusion of women owned businesses in public procurement, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) in collaboration with The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) have engaged the media through traditional and digital media. Since 2023 October, AFIC and PPDA have been implementing a project funded […]
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Public procurement: AFIC/PPDA empower women owned businesses to win contracts
Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) in partnership with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public AssetsAuthority (PPDA) are working to empower women owned businesses in four select entities in Uganda; PPDA, Wakiso DLG, KCCA and Mbarara City. This is aimed to increase women’s participation in public procurement. AFIC research conducted between 2021 […]
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AFIC to collaborate with UHRC on implementation of Information law
On April 2, 2024, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) engaged in a productive discussion with the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) about the need to strengthen collaboration on the protection and promotion of the right to access information in Uganda. This meeting aimed to explore ways to ensure the public has better access […]
Read MoreWhy does Africa Need Open Legislatures?
This post was co-written by Peter Veit of the World Resources Institute and Gilbert Sendugwa, Coordinator and Head of Secretariat for the Africa Freedom of Information Centre. Open government requires an open executive branch, an open legislature, and an open judiciary. Historically, in Africa, however, global attention to government transparency and access to information has […]
Read MoreCelebrating Outstanding Access To Information Cases in Africa
Since 2010, the momentum for adoption and implementation of access to information has picked up and the number of African countries with access to information laws has increased from five in 2010 to 29 in 2024. While a considerable number of countries are yet to adopt ATI laws and implementation challenges persist, there are thousands […]
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Elections in Africa:19 Countries Set To make history in 2024
Africa has a busy election calendar in 2024, with 19 countries holding presidential or general elections. These range from contested multiparty to routine electoral exercises. And, two-thirds of these will be in the last quarter of the year. Country Type of Election Date Comoros Presidential January 14 Mali Presidential February 4 Senegal Presidential February 25 […]
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AFIC Trains Leaders to Benefit Special Groups in Bukoba District
Africa Freedom of Information Center (AFIC), in collaboration with The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) and non-governmental organizations Omuka Hub conducted a capacity building session for leaders of various departments and political parties in Bukoba District with the aim of overseeing the 30 percent of funds provided by the Government to benefit special groups. Various […]
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🌍📜AFIC Elects a New Governing Council 2024 to 2026
On 28th February 2024, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) a pan-African membership civil society network and resource center promoting the right of access to information welcomed a new Governing Council. The election occurred during the 5th General Assembly held virtually on the 28th February 2024. The Council is comprised of seven elected members. […]
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How to access Public Information in Uganda: A Guide from ATI Act 2005
Access to information is the cornerstone of transparency and accountability in any society. In Uganda, the Access to Information Act 2005 provides a legal framework for acquiring public information held by government bodies and other public entities. This act aims to promote citizens’ right to information, ensure government transparency, and enable effective participation in governance. […]
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