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 continent.
This year’s international commemoration will be hosted by the government of Ghana and UNESCO on 1-2 October 2024, the theme of the 2024 Global Conference on Universal Access to Information is”Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector”.
Here’s how different AFIC members from different African countries will commemorate this significant day.
1. Cameroon: ADISI’s Engaging Approach
Event Title: Development and Expansion of Digital Communication and Information Tools for Local Authorities
Description: In a bid to enhance local governance, ADISI will analyze the communication systems of selected municipalities, proposing innovative digital solutions such as websites and social media platforms. The initiative will include training for communication managers to better engage with citizens, promote open data, and ensure accountability in governance.
Target Audience: Communication managers, youth, local councilors, and communities.
Date & Venue: September 28th, 2024.
Links: ADISI Website
2. Uganda: Kick Corruption Out of Uganda’s Initiative
Event Title: Enhancing Transparency and Public Accountability through Access to Information
Description: This public forum will serve as a platform for dialogue among citizens, NGOs, government, and the private sector, focusing on the role of access to information in fighting corruption. Participants will discuss Uganda’s Access to Information Act and engage in a vibrant social media campaign using the hashtag #AccessToInfoUganda.
Target Audience: Civil society, government officials, journalists, and the public.Date & Venue: September 28th, 2024, from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Kick Corruption Out of Uganda Headquarters.
3. Malawi: CHRR Conference
Event Title: Media Freedom and Access to Information Conference
Description: Over two days, this conference will facilitate discussions on the free flow of information as Malawi heads towards its 2025 General Elections. Media professionals and information stakeholders will gather to explore ways to enhance democratic governance.
Target Audience: Media stakeholders and information holders.
Date & Venue: September 26th-27th, 2024, at Bindu International Conference, Lilongwe.
4. South Sudan: AMDISS Panel Discussions
Event Title: Access to Information Day Panel Discussions
Description: This day-long event will feature speeches from key figures in the media and government, discussing the importance of transparency in governance. It aims to mobilize various stakeholders to prioritize access to information in South Sudan.
Target Audience: Journalists, government representatives, and civil society members.
Date & Venue: September 26th, 2024, at Crown Hotel, Juba.
5. Uganda: AFIC’s Focus on Legislative Advocacy
Event Title: Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector
Description: AFIC will conduct a series of events designed to raise awareness of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights recommendations regarding access to information. Activities will include visits to Parliament to discuss legal amendments and a main event focused on the implementation of the Access to Information Act at Makerere University.
Target Audience: Government officials, CSOs, and media representatives.
Date & Venue: Activities from September 24th to 26th, 2024, at Makerere University Auditorium.
Links: AFIC Website
A Unified Call for Transparency
These diverse events reflect a unified commitment across Africa to champion the right to access information as a fundamental component of good governance and democracy. Through workshops, forums, panel discussions, and digital initiatives, AFIC members aim to engage citizens, empower local communities, and foster a culture of transparency, ultimately working towards a more open and accountable society.
Celebrating IDUAI 2024 will involve not just commemorating the vital role of information accessibility but also catalyzing meaningful change and prompting calls to action across the African continent. As these initiatives take shape, they will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening democratic values and empowering citizens throughout Africa.
Keep a look at our website for more activities from our members across the continent through out the week. Would like to share your IDUAI event for publicity? email us at [email protected]
