The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) has allocated N$19 million for the operationalisation of the Information Commission.
This move comes in anticipation of implementing the Access to Information Act No. 8 of 2022 in the forthcoming 2024-2025 financial year.
The Access to Information Act is poised to address critical issues surrounding government transparency and citizen empowerment with information critical for decision-making and of socioeconomic value.
It aims not only to ensure the freedom of information but also to enhance accountability and foster stronger relationships between citizens and the government.
According to Minister of ICT Emma Theofelus, as part of the implementation process, the regulations of the Access to Information Act are scheduled to be tabled in Parliament during its ongoing session.
“Its regulations are due for tabling in Parliament during its current session. Following this, the Office of the Information Commissioner will be established to address the important issues of transparency–not just in the public sector but also in the private sector,†she said.
She further explained that MICT intends to organise capacity-building and orientation workshops aimed at Communication Officers from various government bodies such as Offices, Ministries, Agencies, Regional Councils, Local Authorities, and Public Entities.
“Further, we plan to expand on the Annual Public Entities Communication Officers Awards to recognise and encourage excellence within the public sector in executing the communication function.†Theofelus said.
Theofelus further said MICT would allocate N$19 million towards the development of policy and legislation supporting ICT development with a focus on coordinating compliance with regional, continental, and international ICT obligations, while working towards bridging the digital divide through Rural Information Communication Technology Centres across all regions of the country.
“We aspire to invest in ICT infrastructure development under this programme to propel economic growth and enhance job creation,†she said.
