The 17th International Conference of Information Commissioners (ICIC) and the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) are currently underway in Lungi, Sierra Leone. The event, being held at the Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre, brings together information commissioners, policymakers, and stakeholders from Sierra Leone and other countries. They will deliberate on access to information, information integrity, and emerging challenges linked to information disorder in the digital age.
The conference is being held under the theme “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder.” Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh officially opened the conference, describing the moment as both significant and challenging in an era increasingly defined by the rapid flow of information. He noted that access to reliable information plays a central role in governance and public engagement.
Dr. Jalloh reflected on Sierra Leone’s historical media landscape, recalling that the country once had a vibrant press presence dating back to the early 20th century. He also referenced the nation’s difficult past, noting that by 1991 it had been widely described as a collapsed state. He stressed that rebuilding strong democratic institutions remains essential to national recovery.
The Vice President emphasized that access to information strengthens accountability, builds public trust in government, and enables citizens to assess performance in public service delivery. He added that it also contributes to reducing corruption. However, he warned that these gains are increasingly being challenged by the rise of artificial intelligence and other structural barriers affecting information production and verification.
Commissioner of the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC), Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, described the conference theme as timely and relevant. He said the commission continues to work to ensure that access to information becomes a practical reality rather than only a legal provision. The Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Democracy (NaCCED), Mr. Joseph Munda Bindi, is also taking part in the conference.
This marks the first time Sierra Leone is hosting the ICIC-IDUAI conference. The three-day event, running from 28 to 30 September 2026, is expected to strengthen global cooperation on transparency, democracy, and strategies to combat misinformation and information disorder. The conference will provide a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and best practices in promoting access to information.
The ICIC-IDUAI conference is a significant event for Sierra Leone, as it demonstrates the country's commitment to promoting access to information and transparency. The event will conclude on 30 September 2026, with participants expected to adopt a declaration outlining key actions to promote access to information and combat information disorder.
Key points
- The conference aims to strengthen global cooperation on transparency, democracy, and strategies to combat misinformation and information disorder.
- Access to information strengthens accountability, builds public trust in government, and enables citizens to assess performance in public service delivery.
- This marks the first time Sierra Leone is hosting the ICIC-IDUAI conference.
