Gambian reiterates commitment to information access at global conference

On October 1st, 2024, the Gambian Minister of Information, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, represented The country at a global conference held in Accra, Ghana.

The conference commemorated the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI).

Organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Government of Ghana, this year’s event centered around the theme “Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector.”

The conference convened information ministers from various African nations, along with Information Commissioners and global experts, to explore the vital role of access to information in enhancing good governance and democracy.

Participants engaged in meaningful discussions about the myriad challenges faced by African countries in facilitating access to information and deliberated on potential solutions to these pressing issues.

During a high-level panel discussion focused on advancing access to information within government institutions and the integral role of civil society, Dr. Ceesay articulated The Gambia’s ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering transparency and improving public access to information.

He underscored the significance of regular press conferences organized by the Ministry of Information, which provide a vital platform for government officials to engage directly with the media and the public.

“Through these conferences,” Dr. Ceesay remarked, “the government can address pressing national issues and provide clear information to counter misinformation.”

Furthermore, the minister highlighted the importance of social media as a powerful tool for reaching a wider audience and fostering open dialogue.

He also introduced the Mansa Kunda initiative, a biweekly dialogue that facilitates face-to-face interactions between sector ministers, permanent secretaries, and heads of government departments with the public.

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“This initiative has been crucial in fostering transparency and building trust between the government and the people of The Gambia,” he noted.

While celebrating these advancements, Dr. Ceesay acknowledged the challenges that persist in the journey towards enhanced access to information.

He emphasized the necessity for ongoing capacity building within government institutions to ensure they are adequately prepared to manage and disseminate information effectively.

The minister pointed out the deep-rooted institutional and cultural barriers that hinder progress, stressing that changing the mindset around information sharing—both within the government and among citizens—remains a significant challenge.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Ceesay reaffirmed the essential role that access to information plays in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in reducing inequality and fostering peace, justice, and strong institutions.

He reiterated The Gambia’s steadfast commitment to upholding the right of its citizens to access accurate and timely information, asserting that this is crucial for nurturing democracy and sustaining peace in the country.