MICT welcomes the endorsement of the Access to Information Regulations by Parliament

 

The National Assembly has approved the Access to Information Act (ATI) No. 8 of 2022 Regulations, marking a significant development in Namibia’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

The endorsement, finalized on Tuesday, 06 August 2024, is a key milestone in the implementation of the ATI legislation.Following the approval, Hon. Emma Theofelus, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, is expected to issue a notice in the Government Gazette to officially commence the Act’s implementation.

This step will pave the way for the operationalisation of the ATI Act.

The Act will lead to the creation of an independent Office of the Information Commissioner, responsible for overseeing the public’s right to access information.

The upcoming establishment of this office will facilitate the appointment of both an Information Commissioner and a Deputy Information Commissioner, roles crucial for upholding the principles of transparency and accountability as enshrined in the Act.

The new regulations are anticipated to enhance the provision of information by public and private institutions, ultimately benefiting Namibians by ensuring greater access to essential information.