Access to Information - 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), […]

Uganda 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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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, […]

83rd 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 […]

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 […]

AFIC 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, […]

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 […]

Press statement: Join the campaign for urgent adoption of Information law in Senegal

SENEGAL: PRESS STATEMENT 23rd August 2024 Advocating for Transparency: A Call for the Adoption of Access to Information Law in Senegal As we approach the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 28, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and Article 19 are launching a public campaign to advocate […]

Data 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 […]

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 […]

AFIC, Ministry Of ICT, Twaweza Welcomes The Gambian Delegation

Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined the Ministry of ICT and National guidance, and Twaweza Uganda, on 25th July 2024, on a study tour of The Gambian government delegation on the implementation of the Access to Information ACT in Kamuli District, Uganda. Uganda adopted the Access to Information Act in 2005, becoming one of […]

Empowering Citizens: Somalia’s Official Information Bill Should Align with Global Standards for Effective Governance

Somalia; 30th , July 2024 In light of recent developments concerning Somalia’s Draft Official Information Bill, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), the largest pan-African, membership-based civil society organisation and resource centre promoting the right of access to information, transparency and accountability across the African Continent welcomes government’s efforts to enhance transparency and […]

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 […]

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 […]

Contracts Monitoring: Paving the Way for an Empowered Ghanaian citizenry-GACC

Introduction An informed citizenry is a pivotal force in shaping a nation’s developmental trajectory. Underthe Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (Act 989) of Ghana, every citizen is empowered torequest information held by public and certain private institutions performing public functions.Furthermore, the RTI law, a critical anti-corruption tool, aims to enhance transparency withinpublic administration. Simultaneously, […]

Fighting corruption for Universal Health Care in Ghana, Malawi and Uganda

Corruption within healthcare systems is a formidable barrier to achieving universal healthcoverage. Recent studies have highlighted the detrimental impact of medicine theft on healthfacilities in Ghana, Malawi, and Uganda, contributing to stock outs and compromised patientcare. Recognizing the urgent need for action, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre(AFIC) is partnering with Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) […]

Uganda takes major Step towards Gender Inclusive Public Procurement

On March 22, 2024, the Government of Uganda took a major policy step to enhance women’seconomic empowerment. Uganda joined only Kenya and Tanzania by launching guidelines on the reservation scheme for public contracts for women, youth and persons with disabilities. The Guidelines seek to operationalize Section 59B of the amended Public Procurement and Disposal of […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

🌍📜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. […]

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, […]

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LIFT PROJECT: Promoting economic and social inclusion in Uganda’s Public Procurement

LIFT PROJECT: Promoting economic and social inclusion in Uganda’s Public Procurement Open Contracting Lift is Open Contracting Partnership’s impact accelerator that helps teams of bold procurement reformers propel their ambitious plans toward systemic change. Through Lift, OCP has supported teams around the world to use public contracting to improve effective governance and support more equitable and green […]

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 […]

From disclosure to impact: Deepening open contracting in Africa- Project Stories of Change in Malawi

With support from Hewlette foundation, Africa Freedom of Information Centre has worked to improve delivery of health and education services through promotion of disclosure, public participation, efficiency, value for money and competition in public contracting in Malawi, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria and Uganda. Tremendous impact has been made across the project countries. Stories of Change from Malawi […]

Towards gender responsive public procurement: Project outcomes

Government procurement is the biggest public market in the world, with many governments, including across Africa, spending roughly 15% of GDP on goods, works, and services every year. Given the huge sums of money involved, government procurement has the potential to play a game-changing role in tackling labour market segregation and employment gender gaps, which […]

CoST Uganda: Bridging the gap-building the bridge

This article entitled “Bridging the Gaps, Building the Bridge” highlights that to achieve any development initiative, there must be a well-thought-out blueprint or roadmap that indicates the steps and stages of implementing a change strategy, access to information is key. Therefore, to enhance infrastructure transparency, data standards are adopted by different countries globally. Such data […]

Statement by HRNJ-Uganda on the International Day to End Crimes of Impunity against Journalists

The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists is a significant occasion that underscores the importance of press freedom, the safety of journalists, and the fight against impunity. This day, observed annually on November 2nd, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about the grave threats and challenges faced by journalists worldwide, […]

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 […]

Panos Institute Sourthern Africa; Amplifying local voices in advocacy for Access to Information law in Zambia

In the quest for a law that has eluded Zambia for more than two decades, resulting in many citizens losing interest, AFIC member Panos Institute Southern Africa has embarked on a robust campaign to mobilise citizens and facilitating their participation in the actualization of Access to Information in Zambia. Zambia previously attempted to enact […]

Panos , ACHPR Special Rapporteur discuss Access to Information and other human rights in Zambia

The Executive Director of Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf), Mr. Vusumuzi Sifile on 06 October 2023: paid a courtesy call on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) ACHPR Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, Hon. Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo. The meeting, held at Hon. Commissioner Topsy-Sonoo’s office […]

A look into Kick Corruption out of Uganda’s achievements: Paving the Way for a Corruption-Free Society

Kick Corruption out of Uganda Organisation (KICK-U) has been steadfastly working towards its mission “Facilitating Communities to demand for good Governance and Accountability for improved service delivery in Uganda.” As we reflect on our recent accomplishments, we take pride in the transformative projects and activities that have made a significant impact on the communities in […]

Open Contracting Improves Social Service Delivery in Uganda-Success Stories

Ministry of Public Service Mainstreams Open Contracting in the Curriculum of the Uganda Civil Service Open Contracting Improves Social Service Delivery in Uganda Introduction Globally, governments spend approximately USD 9.5 trillion annually in public contracting . However, the rate of return on this investment is quite low because public procurement is faced with a myriad […]

Community monitoring influences Local Government action on open contracting

Community Monitoring Influences Local Government Action in Kanungu The challenge Since the year 2018, AFIC has been training civil society organizations and community monitors on public contracts’ monitoring. Before AFIC’s interventions, the phenomenon of contracts’ monitoring was unheard of and no citizen could relate to contract information. Through continuous coaching and mentoring, citizens have been […]

AFIC briefs the media ahead of International Day for Universal Access to Information

In commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2023, the year’s global theme, as set by UNESCO, is ‘the importance of online space for access to information’. Ms. Charity Komujjurizi speaking on behalf of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) said that this theme is relevant as Uganda stands at the peak of […]

AFIC, Article 19, Federation of African Journalist send a letter to the President of Senegal

In a letter addressed to the President’s office, Article 19, Federation of African Journalists and Africa Freedom of Information Centre urged the government of Senegal to enact Access to Information law. Senegal remains among the 26 African Countries that have not yet enacted the Access to Information law, the rest being; Burundi, Cameroon, Central African […]

AFIC leads International Day for Universal Access to Information celebrations

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 […]

AFIC: Observer Status Ref. Number 434 Statement in Support of the Special Mandate on Freedom of Expression

Arusha October 2023 Hon Chairperson, Distinguished Hon Commissioners, State delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and its membership of 51 civil society organisations in 27 African countries, have the pleasure to commend the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa for her leadership and excellent collaboration […]

The government of Uganda praises civil society and the media for their role in exposing corruption

The government has praised civil society and the media for their role in exposing corruption, attributing their effectiveness to digital technology and social media platforms. The commissioner of national guidance in the Ministry of Information, Kamarage Kakonge, highlighted the critical role played by civil society organizations and the media in holding government officials accountable. These […]

AFIC: Observer Status Ref. Number 434 Statement in Support of the Special Mandate on Freedom of Expression

Arusha October 2023 Statement delivered by Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) Hon Chairperson, Distinguished Hon Commissioners, State delegates, Ladies andGentlemen, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and its membership of 51 civil society organisations in 27 African countries, have the pleasure to commend the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression […]

Progress in the adoption of ATI legislation by States Parties: Successes and challenges

Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive Director African Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) Introduction and observations Adoption of ATI laws in Africa started very late and slowly. The first ATI law in Africa was adopted in the year 2000, nineteen (19) years after the adoption of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and when 85 other […]

Transparency issues in the distribution of sanitary towels to primary and secondary schools in Nambale sub-county, Kenya resolved

Year: 2016 Country: Kenya Requestor: A member of civil society organization, Young Leaders of Kenya (YOLEKA) Issue area: Health The issue/Story: Since the financial year 2011/2012, the Kenyan Government committed Ksh. 240 Million for the purchase and distribution of sanitary towels to 443. 858 girls in primary and secondary schools12. The project was to be […]

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