Transparency and Accountability - 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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Implementation of UN Convention Against Corruption in East Africa

Regional Conference on reviving the regional platform Africa Nairobi, 20-23 May 2024 Outcome of the Civil Society Roundtable Overall Commitment Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have played a pivotal role in the East Africa Anti-Corruption Platform since its inception in February 2017 at the East African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (EAAACA) regional convening on Fast […]

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 […]

Improved public procurement inclusion in Uganda-CoST Uganda

For many years, public procurement in Uganda has been skewed toward the privilege category of business beneficiaries mostly the foreign firms that repatriate profits and drain the economy. There was little attention put on the disadvantaged and highly vulnerable groups such women, people with disabilities and the youth that had remained as spectators of public […]

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) […]

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 […]

AFIC- GROW Project Impact On Women Inclusion In Public Procurement

The collaboration between the AFIC and TISA through Growth and Economic Opportunities for Women (GROW) under the project “Fostering Gender-Responsive Public Procurement: Understanding the Barriers and Solutions to Include Women-Led Businesses in Public Procurement in East Africa” continues to play a pivotal role in influencing policy changes at both the national and county government levels […]

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 […]

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 […]

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: 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 […]

Citizens empowered to hold their leaders accountable in Mbale

The challenge: Before 2020, poor selection of contractors and execution of government contracts in Mbale region was common with resultant shoddy works, delayed completion of projects and suspicion of collusion amongst suppliers and government officials among many other challenges. This affected the quality of implementation of government projects in Mbale City and Mbale District. However, […]

Case studies on the impact of ATI and Anti-corruption in Uganda, Kenya, and Malawi

Find out how access to information has inpacted service delivery in Uganda, Kenya and Malawi Click here

Placenta pit constructed at pemba health centre as a result of citizen demand for information

Placenta Pit Constructed at Pemba Health Centre as a result of Citizen Demands The challenge: The discharge of medical waste at Pemba Health Centre in Salima district of Malawi was for a long time a significant community concern due to bad odor and ugly scenes of places where damping was taking place around the health […]

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Enhancing Performance and Transparency of Social Service Contracts in Uganda

Enhancing performance and transparency of social service contracts in Uganda With funding from the Global Partnership on Social Accountability (GPSA), AFIC in collaboration with Uganda Contracts Monitoring Coalition (UCMC) implemented a 4-year US$650,000 project with an aim to enhance performance and transparency of service contracts in public sectors of health, education and agriculture. The […]

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The extent to which countries implement world bank’s civic engagement framework in practice

Accountability Research Centre (ARC) One of the challenges affecting sustainability of project development outcomes is lack of beneficiary participation and ownership. Through its Citizens Engage-ment Framework, the World Bank commits to en-sure citizens access to infor-mation and participation in its funded projects. In 2019, AFIC with funding from the Accountability Research Centre of the American […]

AFIC welcomes new members from Ethiopia, DRC and Cameroon

The Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has taken a significant step towards bolstering its efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance across the African continent. The organization has extended a warm welcome to three new members who have joined its ranks, namely the Public Information Noble, OPEN DRC, and Siege Social ADISI-Cameroun. This […]

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AFIC in Ethiopia: Joint Committee Established to Address Barriers Faced by Women-Led Businesses in Accessing Public Procurement Contracts

In a significant step towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity in public procurement, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) conducted advocacy activities in Ethiopia from 22nd to 26th May. The engagements that aimed to address the barriers faced by women-led businesses in accessing public procurement contracts in East Africa. One of the major activities […]

Trained Community Monitors Drive Transparency and Accountability in Health Service Delivery in Uganda

Challenge: Due to corruption and inefficiency in the execution of government contracts and services, many Ugandan communities have long struggled to exercise their fundamental human right to adequate healthcare. Despite commendable efforts by the government and other organizations to combat this vice in the sector, significant obstacles remain. This was the case at Lapeta Heath […]

How Disclosure and transparency in procurement affects Health and Education service delivery

A study by Africa Freedom of Information Centre conducted in 2022, in the five countries of Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Ghana, and Nigeria reveals a direct association between disclosure, contract supplies, and service delivery. The study based on selected indicators drawn in subject categories focused on disclosure and transparency, competition, inclusiveness, efficiency, fraud, collusion, and value for money. The […]

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Transparency and Accountability: AFIC engages officials in Gulu on performance of public contracts

On April 26th, 2023, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre held an engagement meeting with district officials, municipal councils, and stakeholders in Gulu district at the Dove hotel in Gulu city. The purpose of the conference was to examine the results of data analysis on procurement processes and how to improve service delivery and value […]

Increase in hiring of additional human resource persons for health Tier 2 health facilities in Nyanza region

Year: 2015-2016 Country: Kenya Requestor: A member of CSO, National Taxpayers Association (NTA) Issue area: Health The issue/Story: The National Taxpayers Association (NTA), one of the partner organizations working with ARTICLE 19 Eastern Africa on transparency in the education sector embarked on a study to establish staffing levels in tier 2 health facilities in the […]

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