The Information Commission of Gambia has emphasized the importance of access to credible information in combating misinformation and disinformation, particularly with the country approaching its presidential election in December 2026. Chairperson Neneh MacDouall-Gaye made this statement on September 28, 2026, as the world commemorated the International Day for Universal Access to Information.
This year's theme, “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder,” highlights the significance of information integrity in the digital era. MacDouall-Gaye noted that access to information is a fundamental human right, guaranteed under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and recognized by UNESCO and the UN General Assembly.
The Information Commission has been working to make the right to know a practical reality across Gambia since the signing of the Access to Information (ATI) Act in 2021 and the establishment of the Commission in 2024. Despite progress, MacDouall-Gaye acknowledged challenges, including low public awareness and resource constraints, which hinder citizens' ability to exercise their right to access information.
MacDouall-Gaye stressed that citizens cannot fully exercise their right to access information if they are unaware of its existence or do not understand the procedures for requesting and receiving information. The Commission has conducted sensitization across all regions and engaged public institutions on their obligations under the law, including proactive disclosure.
The Chairperson warned that misinformation can spread rapidly in the digital age, dividing communities and eroding trust in democratic institutions, especially during elections. She emphasized that unchecked misinformation can mislead voters, undermine social cohesion, and erode trust in democratic institutions.
MacDouall-Gaye highlighted that when election bodies, public agencies, journalists, and citizens can access and verify reliable information, rumors lose their power. She thanked the Ministry of Information, UNDP The Gambia, The Gambia Press Union, Gambia Participates, and TANGO for supporting stakeholder sensitization efforts.
The Information Commission's efforts aim to promote information integrity and combat misinformation in Gambia. The Commission's work is crucial in ensuring that citizens have access to credible information, which is essential for making informed decisions, particularly during elections.
Key points
- Access to information is critical to tackling misinformation and disinformation in Gambia.
- The Information Commission has been working to make the right to know a practical reality across Gambia since the signing of the Access to Information (ATI) Act in 2021.
- Low public awareness and resource constraints are significant challenges to citizens exercising their right to access information.
