A one-day sensitization program on the Right to Information (RTI) Law was recently organized for the staff of Ahafo Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in Goaso. The event was jointly conducted by the Information Services Department, led by Ahafo Region’s Mr. Kombat B. Maxwell, and the Right to Information Unit at the Regional Coordinating Council, represented by Mr. Theophilus Nti Antwi.
Key participants in the program included various staff members from Ahafo RCC, such as Mr. Kyere Bernard (Assistant Internal Auditor), Mr. N.N Quarcoo (Assistant Statistician), Addo Pokuaa (Assistant Director II B), Mr. Emmanuel Williams Appiah (GIZ), Mr. Gilbert A.K Ahadzie (Assistant Director II B), Teddy Owusu (Driver), Dennis Darko (IT), Mr. Ron Kwarteng Obeng (Assistant Environmental Health Analyst), and Mr. Albert Kofi Prempeh (Assistant Budget Analyst). The program also welcomed representatives from departments like Development Planning, Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority, as well as auxiliary staff including cooks and cleaners.
Mr. Theophilus Nti-Antwi, the RTI Officer at RCC, emphasized the significance of the RTI Act 2019 (Act 989). He underscored that every individual has the right to access information from the RTI Unit, as enshrined in Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. He clarified that this information is not the property of a specific office or officer; it is meant for the general public and must be made available when requested. Additionally, he provided insights into exempted information under the Act.
The Ahafo Regional Information Officer, Mr. Kombat Bassum Maxwell, also discussed the reasons behind passing the RTI Law. He pointed out that the law streamlines the process of accessing information, making it quicker and more efficient. Furthermore, he explained that the RTI Law promotes transparency and accountability in various institutions. Mr. Kombat concluded by emphasizing that the law significantly enhances individuals’ ability to exercise their right to access information, as guaranteed by the 1992 constitution.
Mr. Theophilus Nti-Antwi concluded the program by reiterating his availability for inquiries and further clarifications regarding the RTI Law.
