Sierra Leone’s Transparency Surge: RAIC Reports 690% Growth in Public Information Disclosure
The Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC) has delivered a landmark assessment of Sierra Leone’s transparency landscape, revealing unprecedented growth in government information disclosure during its sixth annual report presentation to Information Minister Chernor Bah.
Quantifying the Transparency Transformation
In what represents one of Africa’s most dramatic improvements in government transparency, the Commission documented a surge from just 10 public institutions proactively disclosing information to 79 public bodies now routinely providing data to citizens. This 690% increase marks a fundamental shift in Sierra Leone’s governance approach under President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
Institutional Recognition and Future Mandate
Minister Bah acknowledged RAIC as “one of the best-managed government institutions” while contextualizing Sierra Leone’s impressive 95% global performance score on freedom of information metrics. The Minister’s remarks highlighted the strategic importance of information governance in the country’s development agenda.
“As we modernize our information governance systems, we will further strengthen RAIC’s mandate,” Bah stated, signaling upcoming institutional reforms that will expand the Commission’s role to include data protection responsibilities.
Regional Context and Democratic Implications
The RAIC findings place Sierra Leone at the forefront of West African transparency initiatives. While many neighboring nations struggle with information access, Sierra Leone’s systematic approach to implementing the RAIC Act Section 41 requirements demonstrates a commitment to democratic accountability that extends beyond legislative compliance.
Deputy Minister Bockarie Abdel Aziz Bawoh emphasized the foundational role of transparency in Sierra Leone’s democratic maturation, urging continued adherence to the compliance culture that has characterized RAIC’s operations.
Next Steps for National Transparency
The annual report now advances to Cabinet and Parliament for broader governmental consideration. This progression through Sierra Leone’s governance structure underscores the institutionalization of transparency as a cross-governmental priority rather than a standalone initiative.
The planned transformation of RAIC into a full authority with expanded data protection capabilities suggests Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a regional leader in comprehensive information governance—balancing public access with individual privacy protections.
Source: This analysis is based on the original reporting from Sierra Loaded covering the RAIC’s sixth annual report presentation to Minister Chernor Bah.