By: Mohamed Sahr
As part of the popularization of a more robust innovative system, Right to Access Information has inaugurated the updated version of its digital website in an effort to enhance efficient and transparent access to information on Tuesday 26th March 2024 at Family Kingdom Resort, Aberdeen Freetown.
Making his remark, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, Chairman Right to Access Information said the whole idea of remodeling the digital platform was to increase the flow of information to members of the public in more cost saving manner. He added that the system would aid their monitoring and evaluation process as well as the publication of their annual report.
Dr. Shaw pointed out proactive disclosure of information to public officials as one of the ways that enhances the provision of multiple information with ease. “We are going to ensure that MDAs are fully committed in cascading information to their functional websites,” Dr. Shaw stated.
He emphasized on running functional website not only to the Right to Access Information but also to line Ministries, Departments and Agencies so that they would have sustainable digital systems.
Dr Shaw mentioned that freedom to information platform serves as one four created access blocks which seeks to provide options for MDAs to fill in form for making a request to access certain information.
He explained that after the form has been completed and submitted, then it would take fifteen working days for monitoring and processing of the information to the requester.
RAIC Chairman highlighted the other lists of forms to be completed including the acknowledgement forms, response form and complaints form mainly for public officials.
Bockarie Bawoh, Deputy Minister of Communication and Civic Education acknowledged that Right to Access Information is a fundamental right and whatever information that exists is relevant for every citizen.
He urged MDAs to harness their own report as a step in the right direction and customize the effectiveness of their works through embracing the information systems.
“We seek the information that is timely and verifiable with this update website,” Bawoh said.
Notably, the official launching of the Right to Access Information’s digital platform was premium together with capacity building opportunity to MDAs, civil society organizations and journalists in a bid to complement their work.
Ben Foday, Director of Corporate Affairs at National Telecommunication Authority gave his own remark by imploring other MDAs to work closely to ensure that they harmonize and improve connectivity for internet expansion.
Part of National Telecommunication Authority’s mandate focuses on ensuring information is well regulated to international standards. He assured rural connectivity would have tremendous increase to 80% by 2027 and urban broader access to 95% by 2030.
Samuel Ansumana, Director of Communication Public Relations of Statistics Sierra Leone also disclosed the shared value the two institutions are enjoying by providing accurate electronic data to the people of Sierra Leone. He said Statistics Sierra Leone has made good response rate in terms of data request by MDAs. “We received a total number of 63 requests, 58 requested information were given out, four pending cases and none of the data information was denied,” Ansumana said.
He emphasized on the digital trend Statistics Sierra Leone has taken in recent times in order to bridge the information gap within the country.
