The Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering dedication to improving access to information, particularly in underserved communities across the country.
This renewed commitment was emphasized following the conclusion of the two-day Global Conference on the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI), held in Accra. The event brought together policymakers, civil society organizations, and key stakeholders to discuss the vital role of information in governance, sustainable development, and social accountability.
“Our discussions have not only addressed the complexities of mainstreaming access to information within the public sector. But have also challenged us to consider how information can be a driver of sustainable development, transparency, and social accountability.”
Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister for Information
In her remarks at the closing ceremony, Hon. Abubakar highlighted the significance of universal access to information, describing it as a critical component in advancing national development and empowering citizens.
She expressed confidence in the conference’s outcomes, which she described as fruitful, laying the groundwork for fostering transparency and inclusivity in governance.
The event, which coincided with the celebration of IDUAI, served as a platform for robust discussions around the intersection of information, governance, and development.
The Minister lauded the collaborative spirit exhibited throughout the event, emphasizing that access to information is not only a fundamental human right but also a powerful tool for driving societal progress.
“Access to information goes beyond being a fundamental right; it is also a powerful tool that can drive societal development, enhance governance, and empower citizens,” Hon. Abubakar remarked, stressing the role of information as a cornerstone of transparency and accountability in governance.
The importance of such access in underserved communities was a recurring theme throughout the two-day discussions. The Minister noted that these communities often face barriers that impede their ability to access critical information, which in turn affects their ability to engage meaningfully in governance.
Advancing Information Access
One of the key highlights of the conference was the praise directed toward the government’s implementation of the Online Records Management System (ORMS).
Hon. Abubakar pointed to the ORMS as a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward improving access to information for all citizens.
The system has been designed to streamline the management and dissemination of public information, making it more efficient and accessible, particularly for those in remote or underserved areas.
“The Online Records Management System is a step forward in ensuring that access to information is more efficient and widespread across the country,” the Minister stated.
She emphasized that the platform has the potential to transform how Ghanaians engage with public information, enabling greater transparency and accountability at all levels of governance.
The ORMS is part of the broader reforms aimed at improving the public’s ability to access government records and data. According to the Minister, the system will also play a key role in promoting open governance, by making it easier for citizens to request and receive information on government activities and decisions.
During her address, Honourable Abubakar expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the various partners who contributed to the success of the conference.
She specifically acknowledged UNESCO, the Right to Information Commission, civil society organizations, and media partners for their invaluable support and commitment to promoting open governance through enhanced access to information.
The Minister praised the collaborative efforts of all participants, noting that the shared commitment to advancing transparency and inclusivity will serve as a strong foundation for continued progress.
“Together, we have laid the foundation for a future where information flows freely, empowering citizens and enhancing governance,” she stated.
In her closing remarks, Hon. Abubakar emphasized the enduring importance of information as the “lifeblood of democracy.” She stressed that access to accurate, timely, and relevant information is the bridge between governments and the governed, fostering mutual trust and accountability.
The 2024 edition of the IDUAI in Accra further solidified Ghana’s ongoing efforts to promote the free flow of information as a key driver of democratic governance and sustainable development. The conference served as a reminder of the critical role that information plays in ensuring that governance is not only transparent but also inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens.
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