The Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) has presented its 6th annual report to the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, showcasing continued progress in Sierra Leone’s access-to-information landscape. The presentation took place on Monday, November 17, at the Minister’s office, led by RAIC Chairman Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw and senior executives of the Commission.
The report—submitted in accordance with Section 41 of the RAIC Act—provides audited financials and a national assessment of access to information. The findings show substantial advancement: proactive disclosure has expanded from just 10 institutions in previous years to 79 public bodies now routinely providing information to citizens. This marks a major step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and public participation.
Minister Chernor Bah praised the Commission for its professionalism, consistency, and impact, describing RAIC as one of the best-run commissions in government. He emphasized that Sierra Leone’s impressive 95% global performance score on freedom of information reflects the country’s unwavering commitment under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership. The commitment to freedom of information remains one of the central tenets of President Bio’s governing agenda, and RAIC continues to play a pivotal role in advancing that vision.
“As we modernize our information governance systems, we will further strengthen RAIC’s mandate,” the Minister said. “Government is expanding its scope to include data protection and will elevate the Commission into a full authority as part of the wider reform agenda.”
Deputy Minister Bockarie Abdel Aziz Bawoh also commended the Commission’s dedication and encouraged RAIC to maintain its strong compliance and reporting culture, noting that transparency is foundational to Sierra Leone’s democratic development.
The Ministry will forward the RAIC annual report to Cabinet and Parliament for consideration. Strengthening access to information remains a core pillar of the government’s strategy to deepen civic engagement, promote good governance, and support national development.
