MISA Zimbabwe urges digital tools to improve access to environmental information

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

THE Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe has called for increased use of digital technologies to enhance public access to environmental information.

This follows the observation of the 2025 International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) on September 29.

This year’s theme, “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age”, highlighted the role of digital tools and open data platforms in empowering citizens, improving transparency, and supporting sustainable development.

In a statement, MISA Zimbabwe said universal access to information was a fundamental right that underpins freedom of expression, enables the media to inform the public, hold power to account and foster transparency.

“Timely and credible environmental data is critical for collective action to mitigate climate change and respond to associated risks globally,” it said.

MISA said environmental information, including data on climate change, pollution, biodiversity and disaster risks, requires international cooperation, openness and innovation.

Instruments such as the Paris Agreement and the Rio Declaration provide legal and normative frameworks for environmental transparency and affirm citizens’ right to information.

MISA urged stakeholders to make full use of Zimbabwe’s Freedom of Information Act and its regulations to strengthen accountability in managing natural resources.

Citizens were encouraged to demand corrective action on deforestation, pollution, and siltation in their communities to support sustainable development.

The organisation also called on the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to adopt digital technologies for improved management of the country’s natural resources.

MISA said achieving universal access to environmental information requires strong policies to close the digital gap, ensure affordable connectivity and enhance digital literacy for marginalised communities.

Globally, the 2025 IDUAI celebrations in Manila, Philippines, focus on enforcing access to information laws, promoting environmental transparency and combating misinformation.