Access to information
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
Call to extend AI beyond traditional governance frameworks
There is a need to move beyond the mere adoption of imported AI (Artificial Intelligence) technologies by developing systems that enhance the representation of African languages, thereby extending the application of AI beyond traditional governance frameworks. The...
African Commission calls for guidelines to adapt African media policy to digital era
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) has urged the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa to consult with African stakeholders to evaluate their perceptions of public service content in the modern digital...
Navigating the Data Protection Act Requirements: Ensuring Compliance for Zimbabwean Data Controllers
Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] establishes a structured legal framework for the processing of personal data, ensuring both privacy and security for individuals. Section 5 of this Act designates the Postal and Telecommunications...
Proposed new law to govern social media platforms will over-regulate the digital space
The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, has stated that the government is formulating a new law to regulate social media platforms to tackle the increasing challenges of unregulated usage. During a recent Ministers Meet the...
End violence against women journalists: A call to action for Southern Africa
International Women’s Day, observed each year on 8 March, should act as a clarion call for what the region must do to empower women and girls, especially in the media. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in hate speech and cyberbullying,...