News - Africa Freedom of Information Centre

Civil Society Letter to States Parties to United Nations Convention against Corruption

La version française de ce document est disponible ci-dessous. La versión en castellano de este documento está disponible a continuación del francés. ——————————————————————————————————————— Distinguished Delegates to the 11 th Conference of the States Parties to United Nations Convention against Corruption (Doha, 15 to 19 December 2025): Commit to integrity in the funding of political parties […]

Promoting Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in East Africa: AFIC Launches New UNESCO–IPDC Project

The Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has embarked on a new 12-month initiative with support from UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC). The project, “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in East Africa through the Universal Periodic Review (UPR),” will strengthen the capacity of journalists, civil society organisations (CSOs), […]

Reclaiming Our Data Futures: AFIC Leads Community Dialogue on ACHPR Resolution 620 at DataFest Africa 2025

As Africa enters a decisive era for digital rights, more people have turned to digital platforms to exercise their rights to expression and association. However, governments have responded with increasing digital repression. DataFest Africa 2025, an initiative by Pollicy, has emerged as a vital space for reimagining how data should serve communities not institutions, corporations, […]

Uganda Marks IDUAI 2025 with a Call for Digital Accessibility to Public Information

The music filled the room with warmth. The rhythm within began to bring the place to life despite the grey quiet morning outside. One by one, journalists with cameras, corporates in suits, and government officials in heels and tucked shirts entered each wearing a different hue of purpose and confidence. The hum of conversation filled […]

Sénégal : La promulgation de la loi sur l’accèsà l’information, une étape importante pour la transparence

Déclaration conjointe : ARTICLE 19 Sénégal et Afrique de l’Ouest et Centre africain pour la liberté d’information (AFIC) Alors que le monde commémore le dixième anniversaire de la Journée internationale de l’accès universel à l’information (JIAUI) le 28 septembre 2025, ARTICLE 19 Sénégal et Afrique de l’Ouest et le Centre africain pour la liberté […]

JOINT STATEMENT: AFIC and ARTICLE 19 WEST AFRICA

Senegal: Access to Information Law will support transparency and accountability As the world commemorated the tenth anniversary of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on 28 September 2025, ARTICLE 19 Senegal & West Africa and the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) welcomed the historic adoption of the Access to Information […]

AFIC to Commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025

Every year on 28th September, the world celebrates the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI)—a day that reaffirms the fundamental right of citizens to access public information as a cornerstone of transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. The 2025 global theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” holds particular significance for […]

Celebrating IDUAI 2025: AFIC members champion Access to Information across Africa

As the world prepares to commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025, AFIC members are leading impactful initiatives to highlight the importance of access to information in strengthening democracy, accountability, and citizen participation. South Sudan: AMDISS Advocates for Transparency and Participation The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) will […]

Breaking barriers to Information – AFIC strengthen grassroots voices

In the lead-up to the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has been on the ground equipping journalists, civil society actors, and community change agents with the tools to demand transparency. Across districts including Rubanda, Kole, Kyenjojo, and Kamuli, AFIC has trained over 90 participants […]

Driving Collective Impact: AFIC and members Launch Working Groups to Tackle Africa’s Governance Challenges

Across Africa, communities are demanding transparency, accountability, and inclusion in governance. Yet, despite growing commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, gaps persist. Citizens continue to face barriers to information, women and marginalized groups are excluded from opportunities, corruption undermines trust, and climate change threatens progress. To respond with […]

Beyond the Statistic: Ugandan Youth Demand Real Opportunities on International Youth Day 2025

On International Youth Day 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined partners Twaweza, Media Challenge Initiative, Uwezo, Action for Health, and SEMA to commemorate the Youth and their contribution towards the development of Africa. During the event, new evidence from the Sauti za Wananchi survey sparked dialogue between young people and policymakers under […]

Rubanda district: Strengthening Uganda’s democracy through Access to Information

Between 4 and 8 August 2025, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), with support from Twaweza Uganda, delivered Access to Information (ATI) trainings in Rubanda District. These sessions targeted both the demand side (civil society and journalists) and the supply side (parish chiefs and community development officers). Through building the capacity of citizens to […]

Artificial Intelligence and safety of Journalism in Uganda; Stakeholder’s dialogue

Artificial Intelligence continues to profligate the very fabrics of society. The Information ecosystem is no exception. There is already a shift in African newsrooms. Uganda is no exception. Editors are discovering that an article can be generated in seconds. Transcriptions that once took hours now arrive with the click of a button. Headlines speak with […]

Victory for the Press: Court Backs Journalist’s Right to Public Information

In a historic legal ruling that reverberates far beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, the High Court in Freetown has upheld the power of the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) against the Bank of Sierra Leone in a landmark freedom of information case. At the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), we believe this decision is […]

Africa’s Billion-Dollar Opportunity in Inclusive Procurement

Across Africa, a transformative economic opportunity is hiding in plain sight and it’s worth billions. This isn’t aid, charity, or handouts. It’s inclusive procurement. When women-led businesses are funded, trained, and given a fair shot at government contracts, the economic returns are undeniable and massive. What does fair development really look like? At the recent […]

Redefining climate finance: Why transparency and citizen engagement must take centre stage

As global leaders, development agencies, and civil society actors gathered in Seville for the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), a recurring theme echoed across sessions: the need to rethink how climate finance is delivered, tracked, and evaluated. At the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), we believe this moment represents a turning […]

Request for Quotation—Branded IEC Materials for AFIC

Dear supplier, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) is seeking a qualified and experienced supplier to design, produce, and deliver branded Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials as part of its institutional visibility and advocacy efforts. Kindly find below the list of required items and specifications: 📦 IEC materials required Item Description Quantity Branded Staff […]

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: Uganda’s Slippery Media Landscape in 2024

The Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ-Uganda), a proud member of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), has released the 2024 edition of its Press Freedom Index (PFI). Titled “One Step Forward, Two Steps Back: A Slippery Media Landscape,” the report paints a sobering picture of Uganda’s press environment, exposing a troubling rise in restrictions, […]

How One Procurement Officer Is Championing Women in Mbarara’s Public Contracts

When Mwiije Dina took over as Principal Procurement Officer for Mbarara City, she brought more than technical expertise; she brought a vision for inclusion. Thanks to Uganda’s 15% reservation policy. Targeted training initiatives. Women entrepreneurs in Mbarara are no longer spectators in public procurement. They are active players, leading businesses, securing government contracts, and reshaping […]

Step by Step process in Public procurement

Public procurement plays a major role in Uganda’s development. From constructing roads to supplying medical equipment and running government services, billions of shillings move through public institutions every year. To ensure transparency, fairness, and value for money, the Government of Uganda through the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA)—follows a structured procurement […]

“We’re Not Enemies”: Journalists and police at the Same Table

It started with tension in the room. On one side of the room, uniformed police officers. On the other, journalists—some of whom had once been manhandled by those very uniforms. But something remarkable happened over two days in April 2025. In a workshop convened by the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) with support from […]

83rd ORDINARY SESSION OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS

📍 Banjul, The Gambia🗓 2–22 May 2025 (Public Session: 2–12 May | Closing Ceremony: 22 May) The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) is pleased to announce its upcoming 83rd Ordinary Session, taking place in Banjul, The Gambia, from 2 to 22 May 2025. This major continental event brings together African Union member […]

Her First Win: Margarete’s Story of Registration, Risk, and Reward in Public Procurement

Margret Kyomugisha’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by a procurement training program that would forever alter her trajectory. With newfound confidence and skills, she took the leap and registered JPM Instant Solutions East Africa (JPMISEA), quickly securing her first jgovernment contract. As she transitioned from selling Irish potatoes to securing government contracts for city office cleaning […]

Empowering Women in Business: Praise’s Journey from Mobile Money to Public Procurement Success

Praise Blender Moreen, founder and CEO of Blend Trade Links Limited, is a dynamic entrepreneur based in Mbarara, Uganda. What began as a modest career in mobile money and agency banking has evolved into a thriving enterprise that now competes successfully in public procurement. Her turning point came after a transformative workshop organized by the […]

Scrubbing the System: Niyizana Juliet’s Journey from Clinical Officer to Uganda’s Public Procurement

For Niyizana Juliet, a clinical officer-turned-entrepreneur, the journey into public procurement seemed daunting, but with the support of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), she was able to overcome these challenges. The CEO of Definite Spotless Cleaners, a professional cleaning service in […]

From baking at home to winning government contracts, Brenda shares her journey and advice for women entrepreneurs

Public procurement: Imagine being a talented entrepreneur, eager to grow your business and provide for your loved ones. But, despite your hard work, you’re constantly faced with barriers that prevent you from accessing the opportunities you deserve. For women-led businesses in Uganda, this was the harsh reality. Despite the government’s significant spending on public […]

Understanding Public Procurement: How Your Tax Money is Spent

As a citizen, have you ever wondered how your tax money is spent? Do you know how the government buys goods and services for your community? In this article, we’ll explore the concept of public procurement, its importance, and how it affects you as a citizen. What is public procurement? This is the process by […]

The Dark Side of Digital Tech: Corruption, Surveillance, and Human Rights Concerns in Africa

The use of digital technology systems, including artificial intelligence, fingerprint, and facial recognition systems, has gained significant prominence in Africa, as is the case in other regions around the world. However, the procurement and deployment of these systems have quite often been riddled with corruption and lack of transparency on the one hand and […]

LOW PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT ATTRIBUTED TO INFORMATION GAP – BASELINE REPORT

Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) in collaboration with the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) with support from Open Contracting Partnership (OCP) conducted a baseline study that delved into participation of Women Owned Businesses (WOBs) in public procurement. This was done among four pilot entities that is two Procurement and […]

AFIC EMBARKS ON A FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN (2025-2030).

In a bid to enhance promotion of access to information, transparency, accountability, inclusive and sustainable development across Africa, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) has embarked on a five-year strategic plan (2025-2030) to continue its mandate. In the past five years, AFIC has been able to garner immense success in its priority areas namely; Right […]

Uganda Commemorates the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

3 December, 2024 On 4 November 2024, UNESCO, UNHCR in partnership with the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), hosted a pivotal multi-stakeholder dialogue in Kampala, Uganda. The event, commemorating the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists (IDEI), focused on enhancing the safety of journalists, with a particular emphasis on addressing […]

Multistakeholder Dialogue for Ending Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists in Uganda

📅 Date: November 2, 2024📍 Location: Kampala, Uganda Organized in collaboration with UNESCO, OHCHR, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO, the dialogue aims to collaborate on creating a 5-year action plan that ensures the safety of journalists and fortifies fundamental human rights in Uganda. Together, we can make a difference! 💪

Kampala Set to Host Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Crimes Against Journalists

Stakeholders Prepare to Address Impunity against Journalists at November 2 Event Kampala, October 30, 2024 — Kampala will host a major multi-stakeholder dialogue on November 2, 2024, as part of global efforts to commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The event, organized by the Africa Freedom of Information Centre […]

Press statement: IDUAI 2024

Commemorating International Day for Universal Access to Information in Uganda 2024 Kampala, Uganda 25 September, 2024– To mark the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI), the Ministry of ICT&NG, Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communications, Ugandan Human Rights Commission, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), and Twaweza Uganda will host a […]

AFIC Congratulates Senegal on Adopting the Access to Information Law!

The Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) warmly congratulates the Government and people of Senegal on the historic adoption of the Access to Information Law (Loi n° 2025-15 relative à l’Accès à l’Information). This progressive law guarantees the right of every person to access information held by public institutions and private bodies performing public functions, […]

International Day for Universal Access to Information 2024: AFIC Members’ Commemorations Across the Africa

As the world gears up to celebrate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 28, 2024, various members of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) are set to engage in a series of impactful events aimed at reinforcing the importance of access to information, transparency, and accountability across the African […]

Press statement: Join the campaign for urgent adoption of Information law in Senegal

SENEGAL: PRESS STATEMENT 23rd August 2024 Advocating for Transparency: A Call for the Adoption of Access to Information Law in Senegal As we approach the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 28, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) and Article 19 are launching a public campaign to advocate […]

Data is Power, but Who Controls It? – Dialogue on Data Governance

“Who owns your data?” – a question that has become increasingly pertinent in Uganda’s rapidly growing digital landscape. In a world increasingly driven by data, governance over personal information has never been more critical. From online banking to health records, personal data shapes the way we interact with services, businesses, and even governments. Yet, as […]

Where it all started: Continental Campaign for access to information in Africa

Over the last two decades, since the first national access to information legislation in Africa was adopted by the Republic of South Africa in February 2000, the continent has embraced the right to information, recognising it as critical to the enthronement and consolidation of participatory democracy, economic development and the advancement of its peoples. On […]

Empowering Women in Public Procurement: A Transformative Initiative by AFIC, PPDA

Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) is collaborating with The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets(PPDA to increase women’s participation in Public procurement in Uganda. This collaboration aims to enhance the participation of women in public procurement, a sector where women have historically faced numerous barriers. According to the PPDA Act’s Section 59B, contracts […]

AFIC, Ministry Of ICT, Twaweza Welcomes The Gambian Delegation

Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined the Ministry of ICT and National guidance, and Twaweza Uganda, on 25th July 2024, on a study tour of The Gambian government delegation on the implementation of the Access to Information ACT in Kamuli District, Uganda. Uganda adopted the Access to Information Act in 2005, becoming one of […]

Empowering Citizens: Somalia’s Official Information Bill Should Align with Global Standards for Effective Governance

Somalia; 30th , July 2024 In light of recent developments concerning Somalia’s Draft Official Information Bill, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), the largest pan-African, membership-based civil society organisation and resource centre promoting the right of access to information, transparency and accountability across the African Continent welcomes government’s efforts to enhance transparency and […]

Implementation of UN Convention Against Corruption in East Africa

Regional Conference on reviving the regional platform Africa Nairobi, 20-23 May 2024 Outcome of the Civil Society Roundtable Overall Commitment Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have played a pivotal role in the East Africa Anti-Corruption Platform since its inception in February 2017 at the East African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (EAAACA) regional convening on Fast […]

How governments can ensure disclosure of public procurement data

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, transparency in public procurement is more crucial than ever. But how can governments ensure the disclosure of vital data to promote accountability and efficiency? Here are some actionable strategies that can create away for a more transparent procurement process. 💡 Embrace Digital Transformation Harnessing technology is paramount in […]

Why Public Procurement Disclosure is important for Development in Africa?

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of sustainable economic growth, especially in developing regions like Africa. When it comes to public procurement, ensuring open disclosure of contracts, tenders, and expenditures plays a vital role. This is in fostering trust, reducing corruption, and driving positive change. According to recent studies, countries with transparent procurement […]

Improved public procurement inclusion in Uganda-CoST Uganda

For many years, public procurement in Uganda has been skewed toward the privilege category of business beneficiaries mostly the foreign firms that repatriate profits and drain the economy. There was little attention put on the disadvantaged and highly vulnerable groups such women, people with disabilities and the youth that had remained as spectators of public […]

Access to Information in Uganda: Prospects and Hurdles

Access to information is a fundamental human right essential for transparency, accountability, and empowerment. In Uganda, the landscape of information accessibility is evolving rapidly, presenting both opportunities and challenges. On 17th May, 2024, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) joined The Centre for Policy Analysis (CEPA) and other Civil society organisations in a one day […]

How can governments ensure active disclosure of public information during Elections?

In times of uncertainty and change, access to accurate and timely information becomes paramount. Whether during elections or pandemics, the ability to stay informed empowers individuals to make informed decisions that can shape the future. But why and how can governments ensure active disclosure of public information during these critical moments? 💡 Transparency breeds trust: […]

Access to Information: Understanding Your Right to Public Information

Did you know that access to public information is a fundamental right guaranteed by international, regional instruments? In today’s digital age, #transparency and #accountability is more important than ever. But what exactly can you access, and how can you leverage this right effectively? 💡 As a thought leader in your industry, it’s crucial to stay […]

AFIC/PPDA engage media to advocate for inclusive procurement

As part of the advocacy campaign for inclusion of women owned businesses in public procurement, Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) in collaboration with The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) have engaged the media through traditional and digital media. Since 2023 October, AFIC and PPDA have been implementing a project funded […]

Public procurement: AFIC/PPDA empower women owned businesses to win contracts

Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) in partnership with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public AssetsAuthority (PPDA) are working to empower women owned businesses in four select entities in Uganda; PPDA, Wakiso DLG, KCCA and Mbarara City. This is aimed to increase women’s participation in public procurement. AFIC research conducted between 2021 […]

Public procurement report: Women businesses left out on contracts

Participation of Women-Owned Businesses (WoBs) in public procurement is not only a matter of economic empowerment but also a crucial step towards fostering gender equality and inclusive economic growth. Under their Lift Program, Open contracting Parternship selected AFIC and PPDA to participate in the program under the shared theme of leveraging open contracting to advance […]

Contracts Monitoring: Paving the Way for an Empowered Ghanaian citizenry-GACC

Introduction An informed citizenry is a pivotal force in shaping a nation’s developmental trajectory. Underthe Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2019 (Act 989) of Ghana, every citizen is empowered torequest information held by public and certain private institutions performing public functions.Furthermore, the RTI law, a critical anti-corruption tool, aims to enhance transparency withinpublic administration. Simultaneously, […]

Fighting corruption for Universal Health Care in Ghana, Malawi and Uganda

Corruption within healthcare systems is a formidable barrier to achieving universal healthcoverage. Recent studies have highlighted the detrimental impact of medicine theft on healthfacilities in Ghana, Malawi, and Uganda, contributing to stock outs and compromised patientcare. Recognizing the urgent need for action, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre(AFIC) is partnering with Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) […]

Uganda takes major Step towards Gender Inclusive Public Procurement

On March 22, 2024, the Government of Uganda took a major policy step to enhance women’seconomic empowerment. Uganda joined only Kenya and Tanzania by launching guidelines on the reservation scheme for public contracts for women, youth and persons with disabilities. The Guidelines seek to operationalize Section 59B of the amended Public Procurement and Disposal of […]

AFIC to collaborate with UHRC on implementation of Information law

On April 2, 2024, the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) engaged in a productive discussion with the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) about the need to strengthen collaboration on the protection and promotion of the right to access information in Uganda. This meeting aimed to explore ways to ensure the public has better access […]

Why does Africa Need Open Legislatures?

This post was co-written by Peter Veit of the World Resources Institute and Gilbert Sendugwa, Coordinator and Head of Secretariat for the Africa Freedom of Information Centre. Open government requires an open executive branch, an open legislature, and an open judiciary. Historically, in Africa, however, global attention to government transparency and access to information has […]

Access to information: Why a priority for public officials?

Over the past ten years of my work on access to information- campaigning for adoption of access to information laws, training public officials, civil society organisations and journalists and researching- I have learnt that public access to information is as important for public officials as it is for ordinary citizens in various ways. Importance First, […]

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