RTIC Launches Month-Long Campaign on Information Access Amid Rising Digital Misinformation

The Right to Information Commission (RTIC) is gearing up for a comprehensive awareness campaign throughout September to promote Ghana's Right to Information Act and tackle the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital space. The month-long initiative, culminating in the International Day for Universal Access to Information on September 28, reflects growing concerns about how false and distorted information undermines public trust and governance.

Under the theme "Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder," the RTIC will conduct a series of media engagements, stakeholder conferences and internal activities designed to reinforce citizens' understanding of their constitutional right to access public information. This year's focus on information disorder signals a shift toward addressing contemporary challenges facing Ghana's information ecosystem—a critical issue as social media and online platforms become primary news sources for many Ghanaians.

Nationwide Engagement and Stakeholder Conference

The RTIC's outreach strategy spans multiple regions, with commission officials scheduled to participate in radio and television interviews across Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani and Bolgatanga between September 1 and 28. These media appearances aim to educate the public and public institutions about their responsibilities under the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).

A pivotal stakeholder conference on September 24 will bring together representatives from government ministries, local assemblies, civil society organisations, academia, traditional leaders and international development partners. The gathering is expected to produce practical recommendations for addressing information disorder whilst strengthening how public institutions manage and disclose information responsibly.

Participants will explore how meaningful public participation in decision-making can be improved and how Ghanaians can access credible, verified information—concerns particularly relevant as the nation navigates complex policy debates and electoral cycles where misinformation often thrives.

Why This Matters for Ghana

The RTIC's emphasis on information integrity reflects a broader democratic challenge. Access to reliable information underpins accountability and good governance; when citizens cannot trust the information they receive, it erodes faith in institutions and hampers informed democratic participation. Ghana's experience with false narratives on social media—from health misinformation to politically divisive falsehoods—demonstrates why this campaign is timely.

The Act 989, which established the legal framework for information access, remains underutilised by many Ghanaians and public institutions alike. Poor awareness of citizens' rights to request government documents and data limits transparency. Simultaneously, public institutions often struggle with compliance, either through lack of capacity or reluctance to embrace openness. By targeting both citizens and officials, the RTIC is attempting to build a culture where transparency becomes the norm rather than the exception.

The campaign also reinforces Ghana's international commitments. The IDUAI, observed globally on September 28, aligns with the United Nations' push for universal access to information as a human right and development tool. Ghana's participation demonstrates commitment to this principle, though implementation gaps remain significant.

Calls to Action Across Society

The RTIC has issued specific appeals to different stakeholders. Public institutions are urged to strengthen proactive disclosure—publishing information without waiting for requests. Civil society and media are encouraged to continue advocating for transparency and combating misinformation. Citizens are asked to exercise their rights responsibly, verify information before sharing and patronise credible news sources.

Internally, the commission is also investing in team-building and staff engagement, signalling that delivering on its mandate requires a motivated, well-equipped workforce capable of responding to increasingly complex information requests.