Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala of Sierra Leone's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) recently participated in a major international gathering of information commissioners and experts. The event, held in Lungi from September 28-30, 2026, brought together representatives from 41 countries. Kaifala used the platform to highlight Sierra Leone's experience in promoting transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption.
The 17th International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) and UNESCO's commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) examined emerging challenges surrounding access to information. Key topics included information integrity, digital transformation, and public accountability, particularly amid the growing spread of information disorder. This conference provided a valuable opportunity for global experts to share knowledge and best practices.
Kaifala contributed to a high-level panel discussion on balancing the public's right to information with the right to privacy and data protection. This discussion focused on the context of beneficial ownership transparency. He was joined by experts from Kenya, Ukraine, Ghana, and India, who explored how access to reliable beneficial ownership information can help identify individuals behind corporate structures.
The panel discussion aimed to strengthen efforts to prevent and combat corruption. Kaifala drew on Sierra Leone's experience, highlighting the importance of transparency and access to information in promoting accountability. He also recognised the need for appropriate safeguards to protect legitimate privacy and data-protection interests. This balanced approach is crucial in the fight against corruption.
Kaifala's participation in the conference placed Sierra Leone's anti-corruption efforts within a broader international discussion. The focus was on how access to information can be used to strengthen public accountability and address corruption in an increasingly digital environment. This engagement underscored the ACC's commitment to transparency, accountability, and access to information.
The conference provided a platform for Sierra Leone to share its experiences and learn from other countries. Kaifala's contribution to the high-level panel discussion demonstrated the country's commitment to promoting transparency and accountability. The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on the importance of access to information in the fight against corruption.
The ACC's engagement in the conference further solidified its commitment to using transparency, accountability, and access to information as key tools in Sierra Leone's fight against corruption. This international cooperation is essential in addressing the complex challenges surrounding access to information and corruption.
Key points
- Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala represented Sierra Leone at the 17th International Conference of Information Commissioners.
- The conference examined emerging challenges surrounding access to information, information integrity, digital transformation, and public accountability.
- Kaifala highlighted Sierra Leone's experience in promoting transparency and accountability in the fight against corruption.
