Access to Information may not move mountains, but it can move garbage
While it is apparent that access to information has served as a catalyst for various rights, the narrative takes a distinct turn on the Africa continent, where citizens are actively transforming their lives through the recognition that ATI is not a privilege but an inherent right. This month Reyhana Masters explores how the work of IFEX members has contributed to meaningful implementation of access to information laws in various countries. The African proverb “a tree that bends is not broken by the wind” perfectly captures the notion of how access to information works in Africa. Seen as the ‘mother of all rights’, the branches of the ATI tree have curved in many different directions to support a variety of unique and interesting projects. From access to information being seen merely as the reserve of the media, communities on the continent have used their rightfully claimed information to clean up their environments, enhance service delivery, claim refunds from companies for shoddy work and even upgrade systems in the education sector.One of the most visible environmental transformations was that of Malawi’s resort town, Salima. Previously notable for piles of uncollected garbage that resulted in sporadic cholera outbreaks and other infections, the town was restored through an open contracting partnership initiative. The town’s residents and officials now participate in a monthly clean-up campaign, which involves the clearing of bushes and routine garbage collection in town and market areas.
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