International Day for Universal Access to information: Public dialogue at Makerere University
The challenge of “Mainstreaming Access to information and participation in the public sector” was put on the public agenda in a dialogue at Makerere University on September 26th. The Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere, with support from JMIC, hosted the conference in cooperation with other organizations to commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI). Participants used the occasion to reflect on the state of information access in Uganda.
The public dialogue drew participants from various sectors including students, journalists, academia, civil society and policy makers including members of parliament. The discussions revolved around barriers to public participation in governance, the role of the media, civil society organisations and academia in improving access to information.
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who gave the key note address cautioned the Uganda Police against harassing journalists while doing their work, since it affects the public’s access to information.
“No media practitioner should be harassed by security. No one’s work is superior to others. Security should treat journalists and other people with respect as they do their work”, he said.
He highlighted the need to create a conducive environment where journalists can work with police without confrontation.
Dr. Ivan Lukanda, a Senior Lecturer at the department of Journalism and Communication who represented the Head of Department, underscored the role of information access in promoting democracy.
“Democracy survives on accurate information which must be accessed. When information access is curtailed, we are curtailing our progress”, he added.
He commended the Journalism & Media International Centre for the continued support to the Department that has enabled them to hold such important discussions.
The German Ambassador of Uganda, Mathias Schauer, asked the Ugandan security forces to exhibit professionalism when managing demonstrations, such that they avoid harassing journalists who they work with.
The Senior Superintendent of Police, Donald Muhwezi, said that the Uganda police has been at the forefront of sharing information with journalists which helps the public access to information. He said journalists should also look for information that helps Ugandans to solve their day-to-day problems.
Gilbert Sendugwa, the Executive Director for Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC) that co-organised the dialogue with Makerere University expressed concern over the continued public struggle to access information, yet access to information is a fundamental right. He highlighted the need to amend the Access to Information Act of 2005, to meet the international standards.
A 2021-study by civil society organization, Twaweza Uganda, that was presented during the dialogue found that 50% of Ugandans believe that transparency in information access plays a significant role in fighting corruption among public servants, and other wrongdoings.