The Ministry of Information is working to move the Right to Information (RTI) application process online, the sector Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has disclosed at a press briefing on Wednesday.

According to the Minister, the Ministry, in collaboration with the RTI Commission and the Access to Information (ATI) Division of the Ministry has been working to operationalise an Online Records Management System (ORMS) to facilitate the application and processing of RTI requests.

The platform, he said is being developed in accordance with Section 18 of the RTI Act, 2019, and is aimed at digitizing the entire RTI process and enhancing efficiency.

“The Ministry, through the ATI Division, and in consultation with the RTI Commission, is working to operationalise an Online Records Management System (ORMS) to enable applicants to apply for information online, aid information officers in keeping accurate records, and increase efficiency. This process started in 2020.

“This unique platform, which has been developed in accordance with Section 18 of the RTI Act, 2019, will not only digitise the process of RTI application and processing but will also transform records management across public institutions in the country and serve as a central resource centre for RTI,” the Minister said.

Addressing journalists on measures being put in place to ensure the effectiveness of the law, Mr Oppong Nkrumah stated that the online platform will aid information officers in keeping accurate records, transform records management across public institutions, and serve as a central resource centre for RTI.

He further noted that the platform is aimed at making the application and processing of RTI requests easier and more accessible noting that the move to an online platform for RTI application and processing is in line with the government's commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability in public institutions.

The Minister called on public institutions to ensure that they have designated RTI officers and information units to facilitate the implementation of the law.

He emphasised that 320 RTI officers have been assigned since the passage of the law and that 478 public institutions now have information units and designated RTI officers.