NAIROBI, Kenya – Katiba Institute has urged government institutions to embrace proactive disclosure of public records, warning that secrecy continues to undermine citizens’ constitutional right to access information.
Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information at Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Executive Director Nora Mbagathi said transparency is central to democracy, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
“Access to information is not a privilege but a fundamental right,” Mbagathi said. “Yet, despite constitutional requirements, many state agencies remain protective of the information they hold, making full realisation of this right urgent and necessary.”
This year’s theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age,” highlighted the link between transparency and sustainable development.
Mbagathi noted that access to environmental data is vital for citizens to safeguard their rights, hold leaders accountable, and influence decisions on climate change and natural resource management.
She credited the Access to Information Act, 2016—drafted with Katiba Institute’s input—for anchoring the right to information in law.
The institute has since published a citizens’ handbook on the Act, conducted regional workshops, and submitted formal information requests to test compliance among state agencies.
Despite progress, Mbagathi outlined persistent challenges, including low public awareness of the law, inconsistent compliance by state bodies, and barriers created by the digital divide.
She called for stronger collaboration between government, civil society, and the media, as well as greater investment in digital platforms to make information more accessible.
Commending agencies that proactively disclose information, Mbagathi said their compliance “goes a long way in building public trust in institutions.”
The event, organised in partnership with the Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman) and the Media Council of Kenya, brought together key stakeholders including senior government officials and diplomats.
Mbagathi thanked the Royal Norwegian Embassy for supporting Katiba Institute’s human rights and access to information projects, saying such partnerships have expanded the institute’s reach and impact.
“Access to information is not only about transparency—it is about dignity, participation, and justice,” she said.
