Sierra Leone is intensifying preparations to host two prominent international conferences on access to information in September, with nearly 300 delegates expected to attend from different parts of the world.
The country will host activities marking UNESCO’s International Day for Universal Access to Information alongside the International Conference of Information Commissioners. The three-day programme is scheduled to take place at the JMB International Conference Centre in Lungi.
As part of the preparations, Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, convened a high-level coordination meeting at the Ministry’s conference room. The engagement brought together representatives from several Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies responsible for ensuring the smooth conduct of the events.
Addressing participants, Chernor Bah described the forthcoming conferences as an important milestone for Sierra Leone. He said the anticipated presence of hundreds of foreign delegates reflects increasing international recognition of the country’s efforts to promote transparency, accountability and public access to information.
The Minister called for close cooperation among all institutions involved in the planning process, stressing that the success of the conferences would depend heavily on effective coordination and timely delivery of assigned responsibilities.
He referred to a directive from President Julius Maada Bio urging participating institutions to “put our best foot forward” and ensure that Sierra Leone presents itself positively before the international community.
Chernor Bah further encouraged Government institutions to use the conferences as an opportunity to demonstrate the country’s ability to organize major global events. He said a successful programme could help attract more high-level international conferences and strengthen Sierra Leone’s reputation as a suitable destination for regional and global engagements.
Chairman of the Right to Access Information Commission, Dr. Ibrahim Seaga Shaw, presented a technical update on the planning process. He identified transportation as one of the major logistical areas requiring careful attention and urged institutions to strengthen cooperation ahead of the arrival of delegates.
Representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Transport and Aviation, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Office of National Security also provided updates on their respective responsibilities.
The discussions covered transportation, security, healthcare services, internet connectivity, electricity supply, live broadcasting and diplomatic protocol. Participating institutions outlined measures designed to address possible challenges before and during the conferences.
Particular attention was being given to the movement and safety of delegates, reliable communication services, emergency medical arrangements and uninterrupted power throughout the programme.
The Government says the preparations are intended to provide delegates with a well-coordinated experience from their arrival in Sierra Leone to their departure.
Beyond promoting universal access to information, the conferences are expected to provide Sierra Leone with an opportunity to showcase its progress in information governance while strengthening its standing as a potential host of major international events.
