Ghana's Right to Information Commission (RTIC) has announced a month-long programme of activities for September 2026. These activities will mark the annual Right to Information (RTI) Month. The initiative aims to promote public awareness and understanding of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).
The 2026 celebration will operate under the theme: “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder.” The Commission stated that activities will run from September 1 to September 28. This period culminates in the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 28. This annual commemoration highlights the importance of access to information in strengthening transparency, accountability, and good governance across Ghana.
This focus on information integrity is crucial for Ghana's economic and political landscape. Transparent governance can attract foreign investment by reducing perceived risks. It also improves public trust in institutions, which is vital for policy implementation. The proactive disclosure of government data, as mandated by Act 989, can enhance market efficiency. It allows businesses and citizens to make more informed decisions. This aligns with broader efforts to improve Ghana's ease of doing business rankings and combat corruption.
The RTI Commission stated that the celebration offers an opportunity to engage citizens and key stakeholders. It emphasizes the role of access to information in promoting inclusive participation and accountable governance. Section 45 of Act 989 specifically mandates the Commission to promote public awareness. It also requires collaboration with relevant institutions to educate the public on their rights and responsibilities under the law.
A stakeholder conference is scheduled for September 24. This event will gather representatives from various government ministries, departments, and agencies. It will also include metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies, civil society organizations, media, academia, traditional authorities, and development partners. The conference will address practical measures to strengthen information integrity within Ghana’s digital information ecosystem. Participants will also discuss ways to promote meaningful public participation in decision-making processes. This includes improving access to credible and reliable information for all citizens.
Officials from the Commission will participate in radio and television interviews throughout September. These media engagements will occur in Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani, and Bolgatanga. The goal is to deepen public understanding of Act 989. They will educate citizens and public institutions on their respective responsibilities. The Commission also plans internal staff engagement and team-building activities. These activities aim to strengthen teamwork and build a motivated workforce. This workforce will effectively deliver on the Commission’s statutory mandate.
The RTI Commission has urged public institutions to strengthen their proactive disclosure practices. They must comply fully with their obligations under Act 989. It has also called on academia, development partners, and traditional authorities to support transparency efforts. The media and civil society organizations are encouraged to champion access to information. They should promote the dissemination of accurate and verified information. Citizens are reminded to exercise their rights under Act 989 responsibly. They should seek information from credible sources to build a well-informed society. This collective effort is essential for Ghana's continued progress towards robust democratic governance and economic stability.