The Human Rights Commission of Zambia (HRC-Z) recently featured on a live programme on Tuta FM Radio in Mansa, Luapula Province to discuss the Access to Information Act, No. 24 of 2023 and its implementation.

The programme focused on the Commission’s role as the independent oversight body responsible for promoting, monitoring and facilitating compliance with the Act.

The discussion was led by HRC-Z Complaints and Investigations Officer, Mr Davison Miyoba, who highlighted the Commission’s mandate under the Act, its role in promoting access to information and the procedure for requesting information.

Listeners were informed that information requests should be submitted to the relevant information holders through designated Information Officers using the prescribed application form, which must be submitted in triplicate, with one copy retained as proof of receipt.

Mr Miyoba further emphasised the importance of following procedures established under the Act when seeking access to information. He also explained the review and appeal mechanisms available to persons dissatisfied with the decision of an information holder, including the Commission’s role in handling complaints and appeals in accordance with the Act.

Members of the public were encouraged to exercise their right of access to information and to visit HRC-Z offices in their respective provinces for further information, guidance and assistance on the implementation of the Act.