Katiba Institute team (Lillian Nguli, Dennis Ondieki and Irene Kiragu) attended a radio breakfast show at Mtaani radio on March 7, 2025.  This session was part of the project on access to information that Katiba Institute is currently implementing in Nairobi, Nakuru and Samburu counties, thanks to the support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Nairobi. The project promotes good governance by ensuring citizens can access information and encourages government institutions to proactively disclose information. 

The talk show explored the right to access information, as stated in Article 35 of the Constitution and the Access to Information (ATI) Act of 2016, which asserts that every citizen has this right. Access to information is critical to the citizens because it enhances public participation, improves service delivery, holds leaders accountable, and monitors government expenditures. 

Key accomplishments discussed included empowering communities to draft access to information requests and engage in advocacy. This effort resulted in the opening of the Riruta Level 4 maternity wing in Kawangware, which is now operational. Nevertheless, we remain optimistic as we address challenges such as bureaucratic delays, bulky documentation, and instances of delayed or denied information. 

The discussion offered a detailed process of requesting information, the role of the Commission on Administrative Justice, and the legal requirements for obtaining information. 

Listeners actively engaged via social media, where the show was broadcast live. They lauded Katiba Institute’s work and acknowledged the significance of access to information.  Citizens encounter hurdles while trying to access information. Some of the challenges include unresponsiveness and hostile public officials.

The radio show raised awareness about ATI and further emphasised Katiba Institute’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability through ongoing advocacy efforts.  

The key takeaways included the need for increased public awareness, improved compliance by government agencies, increased engagement from civil society and the media, and possible strategic litigation to enforce ATI rights.