The right to information: Best practices and challenges in sub-Saharan Africa and small island developing states

This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from one of Transparency International’s national chapters. The Anti-Corruption Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International and funded by the European Union.

Query

Please provide a summary of the best practices and challenges in implementing the right to information, with a focus on sub-Saharan African countries and small island developing states.

Summary

The right to information is an integral component of government transparency which enables citizens to hold those in power accountable. However, despite an increasing number of countries enacting right to information (RTI) legislation, effective implementation remains a challenge. Certain countries, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa and in small island developing states, face additional barriers to implementation, including financial constraints, a lack of digitalisation and the effects of climate change. This Helpdesk Answer addresses these challenges and cites best practices and recommendations to mitigate them.

Contents

1. Background
2. International standards and best practices
3. The state of right to information in sub-Saharan Africa and small island developing states
   1. Sub-Saharan Africa
   2. Small island developing states
   3. Key challenges
4. Recommendations
   1. Legislation and implementation
   2. Civil society involvement
   3. Digital solutions
   4. Adjusting RTI for small island developing states
5. References

Authors

Caitlin Maslen (TI)

Reviewers

Rachel Hanna

Date

23/10/2025

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