Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande, Mashonaland Central Bureau
Promoting access to information should not be viewed as a threat to authority but as a cornerstone of transparent governance and inclusive national development, Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) board chairperson, Professor Ruby Magosvongwe has said.
She was addressing a training session for senior Government officials in Mashonaland Central on the promotion of access to information within public entities through implementation of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Prof Magosvongwe said that strengthening citizens’ ability to access timely and accurate information is fundamental to fostering accountability, building public trust and encouraging meaningful participation in democratic processes.
“Access to information is not a threat to authority; it is a driver of good governance and a tool for inclusive development,” she said.
“An informed citizen is an empowered citizen.”
Prof Magosvongwe urged all Government departments to empower information officers as stipulated by the Act and to ensure timely, lawful responses to public requests for public information.
“This is not simply about fulfilling regulatory requirements; it is about genuine implementation that fosters trust, accountability and respect.”
The workshop aimed to enhance awareness and enforcement of the FOIA, which was enacted in 2020 to replace the outdated Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA).
The FOIA guarantees every Zimbabwean the right to access information held by public bodies and requires public institutions to designate information officers, respond to requests within 21 days and proactively disclose key information.
Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Christopher Magomo said the training represents a cultural shift from passive information management to proactive disclosure and responsive service delivery.
“As provincial heads, your leadership is vital in disseminating these principles to district and departmental levels,” said Minister Magomo.
Mashonaland Central Permanent Secretary Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mr Timothy Maregere, said the initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to open and democratic reform.
“This initiative is not only timely but necessary as we strive towards the Government’s vision for a more open, transparent and accountable public sector,” he said.
Mr Maregere said the FOIA guarantees citizens the constitutional right to access information held by public bodies, which is fundamental for participatory governance and democracy.
“Everyone must be included to ensure full alignment with the law and its practical implications,” he said.
“The real impact will only be realised when the knowledge gained here permeates to the last desk in the last office.
“Only then can we confidently say we are truly implementing this law.”
