The 2024 International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) conference has come to a close, leaving behind a legacy of renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance. Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar, Minister for Information, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude and accomplishment after two days of insightful discussions [1).

The conference, hosted in Accra, brought together stakeholders from various sectors to explore the complexities of mainstreaming access to information within the public sector. Discussions highlighted the profound impact of access to information on energy access, public participation, and inclusivity, reaffirming that information is not just a right, but an enabler of progress.

Key takeaways from the conference include:

Strengthened Partnerships: Collaborations with UNESCO, the Right to Information Commission (RTIC), civil society organizations, and the media have been pivotal in advancing the cause of access to information.

Initiatives and Frameworks: The Online Records Management System (ORMS) and other initiatives demonstrate Ghana’s dedication to digitizing and streamlining access to public information.

Commitment to Open Governance: The conference reinforced the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance through access to information.