What we do
It is a fundamental human right to ask for and receive, information held by public organisations and bodies. It is critically important to make sure that information held by the public, and in some cases private institutions is available and accessible to citizens in a form and/ or language understandable to them.
MISA Zimbabwe lobbies for the enactment of democratic access to information laws as the right to seek, access and receive information is guaranteed by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Article 4 of the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa. It is also provided for in sections 61 and 62 of the Zimbabwe constitution.
Therefore, this programme seeks to campaign for the public to enjoy their right to be informed through unrestricted access to information.
International Day for Universal Access to information
MISA Zimbabwe commemorates September 28th as International Day for Universal Access to Information. MISA Zimbabwe celebrates Universal Access to Information Day to raise awareness about the importance of the right of access to information in Zimbabwe and throughout the world and cast the spotlight on the challenges that hamper the enjoyment of this fundamental right.
Access to information and knowledge, free expression (online and offline), respect for cultural and linguistic diversity and quality education for all, are key pillars in building knowledge societies.
Access to information news from our chapters
Unpacking the Freedom of Information Regulations
The Freedom of Information Act was gazetted in July 2020 to repeal the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) and to also give effect to the right to access to information as provided for by the Constitution. In terms of Section 40 of the Act, the...
Access to information key in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic
This year’s International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) comes at a time when Zimbabwe, and the world at large, is battling to combat the deadly COVID-19 pandemic which has killed thousands and wrecked the socio-economic wellbeing of nations and their...
Community radios key to access to information in marginalised areas
MISA Zimbabwe welcomes the licensing of eight more community radio stations as this will enhance access to information and exchange of ideas on issues that affect marginalised communities for the government’s attention. The national geographic spread of the licensed...
Parliament backs motion for a freer media and information as a public good
Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Sipho Mokone, moved a motion imploring parliament to enact legislation that enhances media freedom and encourages the media to conduct their activities...
Regional leaders need to reaffirm commitment to Windhoek Declaration
Thirty years after the adoption of the Windhoek Declaration, media stakeholders are once again meeting in Namibia, where they seek to update the seminal document that laid the foundation of World Press Freedom Day. This year’s celebrations are being held under the...