More than a year after The Gambia’s Access to Information (ATI) Act came into force, the country is still waiting to experience the full benefits of a law that promised to strengthen transparency, accountability and democratic governance. The legislation was hailed as a major milestone, yet its implementation has remained disappointingly slow.
The right of citizens to access public information is not a privilege; it is a fundamental pillar of democracy. When people have access to government records, budgets, contracts and policy decisions, they are better equipped to participate in public affairs and hold institutions accountable. Likewise, journalists can report accurately, civil society organisations can monitor governance effectively, and public officials can earn greater trust through openness.
Unfortunately, many public institutions have yet to comply with the basic requirements of the ATI Act. Reports indicate that several ministries and agencies have not appointed designated information officers or established procedures for processing requests for public information. Without these structures, the law remains little more than words on paper.
This failure undermines not only the spirit of the legislation but also the government’s broader commitment to transparency and good governance. Citizens who seek information often encounter delays, silence or unnecessary bureaucracy. Such practices create suspicion, encourage misinformation and weaken public confidence in state institutions.
Implementing the ATI Act should not be viewed as an administrative burden. Rather, it should be embraced as an opportunity to improve public service delivery and strengthen democratic institutions. Public officials need adequate training to understand their responsibilities under the law, while institutions must allocate the necessary resources to ensure compliance. Equally important is raising public awareness so citizens know their rights and how to exercise them.
The Access to Information Commission also has a critical role to play. It must actively monitor compliance, provide guidance to public bodies and ensure that institutions failing to meet their obligations are held accountable. Oversight without enforcement risks rendering the law ineffective.
The Gambia has made commendable progress in democratic reforms since the political transition of 2017. The ATI Act was one of those significant achievements. However, passing progressive legislation is only the beginning. Real success lies in effective implementation and measurable impact on people’s lives.
The time has come for all public institutions to fully embrace the Access to Information Act. Transparency should become the norm rather than the exception. A government that shares information openly is a government that strengthens public trust, promotes accountability and deepens democracy. The law exists; what is now required is the political will and administrative commitment to make it work for every Gambian.
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