A delegation from the Open Government Partnership (OGP) has paid a working visit to the Right to Information Commission (RTIC) in Ghana to bolster transparency and enhance access to information, The high-profile visit was aimed at discussing the implementation of Ghana’s 5th National Action Programme (NAP5) and exploring the country’s potential leadership role in OGP activities across Africa.
The delegation, led by Thelma Ohene Asiamah, Director at the Public Sector Reform Secretariat and local representative of OGP, included prominent figures such as Tarik Nesh-Nash, Coordinator for Africa and the Middle East for OGP, Mukelani Dimba, Information Regulator from South Africa, and Ato Bessa-Simon, Programme Officer at the Public Sector Reforms Secretariat. The delegation was warmly received by Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the Executive Secretary of RTIC, along with other senior management members of the Commission.
A critical aspect of the visit was the proposal for Ghana to assume a leading role in OGP activities in Africa. The delegation expressed keen interest in Ghana’s potential to champion transparency and good governance initiatives, leveraging its robust legal framework and active civil society engagement.
“The request for Ghana’s leadership must be routed through the African Network of Information Commissioners (ANIC), an established platform that could facilitate collaborative efforts and amplify Ghana’s influence in the region.”
Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., the Executive Secretary of RTIC
The discussions during the visit focused primarily on the implementation of NAP5, a critical framework aimed at promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability through enhanced access to information.
A pivotal point of the meeting was the passage of the Commission’s Regulations for the Legislative Instrument (LI), a cornerstone activity under NAP5. The delegation emphasized the importance of these regulations in operationalizing the right to information law and ensuring its effective enforcement.
Executive Secretary Yaw Sarpong Boateng provided a comprehensive update on the progress made towards preparing the Regulations for the LI. He assured the delegation of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to securing its passage, highlighting the meticulous efforts undertaken to ensure the regulations meet international standards and effectively serve the Ghanaian populace.
In a gesture of furthering collaboration, Boateng extended an invitation to the OGP to participate in the upcoming International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) commemoration in Ghana. This event, he noted, would provide an excellent opportunity for OGP to witness firsthand the strides Ghana has made in promoting access to information and to engage with key stakeholders in the country.
Strengthening Collaboration for Good Governance
The visit underscored the strong partnership between OGP and RTIC, highlighting the shared commitment to enhancing transparency, mitigating corruption, and fostering accountability. The delegation’s interest in the Commission’s work and their proposals for new engagement frameworks signal a robust intent to expand OGP activities beyond the executive arm of government, integrating a more holistic approach to governance.
“The implementation of NAP5 is not just about compliance; it’s about fostering a culture of transparency and accountability that permeates every level of government and society. We are encouraged by the progress Ghana has made and are eager to see the continued evolution of these efforts under Ghana’s potential leadership in Africa.”
Thelma Ohene Asiamah, Director at the Public Sector Reform Secretariat
The visit marked a significant milestone in the journey towards better governance in Ghana and across Africa. The discussions and commitments made during this engagement are expected to have far-reaching implications, not only ensuring the successful implementation of NAP5 but also positioning Ghana as a beacon of transparency and good governance in Africa.
For Ghana, this development is a testament to the progress it has made in the realm of access to information and the broader governance landscape. The successful passage and implementation of the LI regulations will further cement Ghana’s standing as a leader in transparency initiatives. Moreover, taking a leadership role in OGP activities across Africa could catalyze similar reforms in other African nations, fostering a continent-wide culture of openness and accountability.
As the RTIC and OGP move forward with their collaborative efforts, the focus remains steadfast on achieving the objectives set out in NAP5 and beyond. The continued partnership between these entities promises to deliver significant advancements in governance, not only benefiting Ghana but also serving as a model for other countries in Africa and around the world.
The OGP delegation’s visit to the RTIC on June 20th, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the pursuit of transparency and accountability in Ghana. With strong leadership, clear objectives, and a collaborative spirit, both organizations are poised to make significant strides in promoting good governance and access to information across Africa.
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