On November 14, 2024, the RTI Officer for West Gonja Municipal Assembly, Shirazu Hussein, conducted a comprehensive sensitization program on the Right to Information (RTI) Act (Act 989) at the Echoe Club House in the Savannah Region. The event, aimed at educating the Network of District Monitors, Savannah Regional Youth Network, and community journalists, highlighted the significance of the RTI Act, which was passed by Parliament in 2019 and came into effect in January 2020. The initiative was designed to inform the public and key stakeholders about their right to access information held by public institutions, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability across the country.
During the session, Shirazu Hussein walked participants through the key components of the RTI Act, emphasizing the legal obligation of public organizations to respond to information requests within 14 working days. He explained the various procedures involved in filing a request for information and the importance of understanding the law to ensure its proper implementation. Hussein highlighted that empowering citizens with the knowledge of the RTI Act is essential for creating a more responsive and accountable public sector.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the informative session, acknowledging the value of understanding the RTI law in their respective roles. Many attendees, including community journalists and youth leaders, emphasized how the training would enhance their ability to demand accountability from public institutions and ensure that vital information is accessible to the public. Additionally, concerns about protecting sensitive information were raised, with one participant suggesting the implementation of safeguards to prevent the accidental release of confidential data under the RTI Act.
In conclusion, Shirazu Hussein reiterated that the primary goal of the RTI Act is to promote good governance, transparency, and accountability in public affairs, in line with Ghana’s democratic values. He encouraged all participants to actively engage with public institutions, utilizing the law to empower citizens, improve service delivery, and ensure that government activities are open and accessible for scrutiny. The training session reinforced the critical role of informed citizens in strengthening democratic processes and achieving effective governance.
