As part of ongoing efforts to empower citizens through access to public information, the Right to Information (RTI) Unit of the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly held a community sensitization program on February 14, 2025, at the Kotokoraba Market in Cape Coast. The session, led by RTI Officer Mr. Philip Neme, supported by Metro Commentator Francis K. Arthur and Service Personnel Selma Umu, brought together market women to discuss the relevance and application of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).
During the engagement, Mr. Neme provided an in-depth overview of the RTI Act, outlining the procedures for requesting information, response timelines, applicable fees, and the constitutional basis for the law under Article 21(1)(f) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. He emphasized that the Act, passed in May 2019 and operational since January 2020, guarantees the public’s right to access information from public institutions and certain private bodies. Topics such as who qualifies to request information and how to do so were explained in detail to demystify the process.
Mr. Francis K. Arthur, the Metro Information Services Department Commentator, reinforced the practical importance of the RTI Act in everyday life, helping the market women understand how the law can be used to demand accountability and transparency from duty bearers. The interactive session provided space for participants to ask questions and share concerns, many of which were addressed by the team. The engagement was well-received, demonstrating strong interest and a growing awareness of the law’s potential to enhance civic participation.
Concluding the session, the Queen Mother of the market community expressed gratitude but requested a follow-up meeting specifically tailored for the various Sub-Queen Mothers, underscoring the need for broader reach. The RTI Officer recommended that market women make regular use of the RTI Unit to exercise their right to information, a key step toward fostering good governance and inclusivity in public affairs.
