blogs - Africa Freedom of Information Centre

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 […]

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), […]

Reclaiming 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, […]

Sénégal : 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 […]

JOINT 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 […]

Celebrating 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 […]

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 […]

Driving 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 […]

Beyond 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 […]

Rubanda 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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

Step 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 […]

“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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

AFIC EMBARKS ON A FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN (2025-2030).

In a bid to enhance promotion of access to information, transparency, accountability, inclusive and sustainable development across Africa, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has embarked on a five-year strategic plan (2025-2030) to continue its mandate. In the past five years, AFIC has been able to garner immense success in its priority areas namely; Right […]

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 […]

Where it all started: Continental Campaign for access to information in Africa

Over the last two decades, since the first national access to information legislation in Africa was adopted by the Republic of South Africa in February 2000, the continent has embraced the right to information, recognising it as critical to the enthronement and consolidation of participatory democracy, economic development and the advancement of its peoples. On […]

Empowering Women in Public Procurement: A Transformative Initiative by AFIC, PPDA

Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) is collaborating with The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets(PPDA to increase women’s participation in Public procurement in Uganda. This collaboration aims to enhance the participation of women in public procurement, a sector where women have historically faced numerous barriers. According to the PPDA Act’s Section 59B, contracts […]

How governments can ensure disclosure of public procurement data

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, transparency in public procurement is more crucial than ever. But how can governments ensure the disclosure of vital data to promote accountability and efficiency? Here are some actionable strategies that can create away for a more transparent procurement process. 💡 Embrace Digital Transformation Harnessing technology is paramount in […]

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 […]

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 […]

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: […]

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 […]

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 […]

Public procurement report: Women businesses left out on contracts

Participation of Women-Owned Businesses (WoBs) in public procurement is not only a matter of economic empowerment but also a crucial step towards fostering gender equality and inclusive economic growth. Under their Lift Program, Open contracting Parternship selected AFIC and PPDA to participate in the program under the shared theme of leveraging open contracting to advance […]

Why 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 […]

Access to information: Why a priority for public officials?

Over the past ten years of my work on access to information- campaigning for adoption of access to information laws, training public officials, civil society organisations and journalists and researching- I have learnt that public access to information is as important for public officials as it is for ordinary citizens in various ways. Importance First, […]

Celebrating 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 […]

PPDA issues regulations for the reservation scheme for special interest groups

Research study by Africa Freedom of Information centre found that only 1% of women-led businesses participate in public procurement in Uganda. On Thursday, 25th January, The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) launched the PDDA Regulations 2023, marking a crucial stride toward streamlining the public procurement sector. Benson Turamye, the Executive Director […]

Complete Need For Disclosing Information On Infrastructure Projects In Uganda

Transparency has been conceived by different people and it’s believed to be detrimental of stakeholders’ participation in the infrastructure sector in Uganda. The essence of disclosing information on public infrastructure projects has been raising some eyebrows. Significantly, this is in breach of the Access to information Act which was enacted by government of Uganda in2005. […]

How AFIC is Building Transparency and Accountability Across Africa Society

Transparency and accountability are fundamental pillars of good governance. Transparency ensures that government processes, decisions, and data are open and accessible to the public, fostering trust and informed participation in the democratic process. Conversely, accountability guarantees that public officials are answerable for their actions, with mechanisms in place for oversight and redress when necessary. The […]

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 […]

Why Access to Information Matters for Africa: Exploring the Challenges and Importance of ATI Implementation

Information access rights in Africa have a complex history rooted in colonial legacies and diverse cultural contexts. The limited progress in implementing these rights can be attributed to various challenges, including political resistance, inadequate infrastructure, and restrictive legislation. Post-colonial state formations have also hindered progress by perpetuating systems of censorship and control. […]

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. […]

Why Access to Information is An Urgent Need in Africa

Access to Information is An Urgent Need in Africa From the national government to the county and regional rulings, the role of transparency cannot be overemphasized. It is the cornerstone for sustainable growth and inclusive development in every country. However, in regions where access to information is still a luxury, transparency only remains better on […]

How contracts monitoring impacts service delivery

Contracts monitoring in public procurement refers to the systematic and continuous oversight of contractual agreements entered into by government entities with suppliers, contractors, or service providers. Public procurement involves the acquisition of goods, services, or works by government agencies, and contracts monitoring is a critical aspect of ensuring that the procurement process is transparent, fair, […]

UNESCO indicators unveil Gendered Realities of Journalists’ Safety in East Africa

The civic space is shrinking, according to the latest research findings by the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC). In particular, women journalists and media workers are faced with gender-based violence in the form of stigmatization, sexist hate speech, trolling, physical assault, rape, and even murder. These threats inflict massive harms on their well-being, work […]

Prevent, protect and provide justice to end impunity for crimes against journalists-MISA

The Southern African region had in the past few years experienced an improvement in the media freedom environment. However, the last year has been characterised by democratic backsliding that has manifested in growing impunity for crimes against journalists and weaponization of the law against the media. The killing of the Lesotho broadcaster, Ralikonelo “Leqhashasha” Joki, […]

End impunity for crimes against journalists: MISA statement

Presentation by MISA Regional Director, Dr Tabani Moyo, at the United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commission Panel Discussion on Legal Threats to Safety of Journalists in commemoration of International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. Date: 02 November 2023, Geneva, Switzerland. Weaponisation of the law The past few years have […]

Peaceful Elections in Digital Times

Africa Freedom of Information Centre, AFIC, organized a three-day workshop from the 11th to the 13th of July 2023 at Protea Hotel Skyz in Kampala funded by UNESCO. The training was based on UNESCO’s 2019 report on elections and media in digital times; which identified three global threats of significance for elections in today’s increasingly […]

Why Access to Information is critical for citizens and governments

Citizens should care because information allows them to participate in priority setting and decision-making, to hold their government accountable, and to assure equal treatment and equal justice

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