OGP Ghana Secretariat and Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to collaborate on Misinformation and Disinformation Bill
The Open Government Partnership (OGP) Ghana Secretariat under the leadership of the Minister of State, for Public Sector Reform Hon. Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba has convened a strategic meeting with the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to deliberate on Ghana’s efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation. The meeting forms part of Ghana’s efforts to implement the commitment under the 5th OGP National Action Plan .
The discussions centered on the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation’s ongoing process to draft a Bill on misinformation and disinformation, and the need to align it with Ghana’s OGP obligations.
Hon. Akanvariba noted that as a collaborating Ministry in the implementation of this commitment, the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation plays a central role in ensuring that the legislation reflects the principles of transparency, inclusivity, and citizen participation.
She emphasized the importance of collaboration in the drafting process, underscoring the need to ensure that the proposed Bill meets both “Ghana’s national interests and international obligations under the OGP framework.”
The Director, General Administration and Point of Contact, OGP Ghana, Mrs. Thelma Ohene-Asiamah, also delivered a presentation to the participants introducing them to the OGP concept, Ghana’s commitments, and the progress made so far. The presentation highlighted Ghana’s role in the global OGP community and focused on the specific commitment to tackling misinformation and disinformation, under the 5th National Action Plan.
In response, the Deputy Minister of Communications Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon, Mohammed Adams Sakparu affirmed his Ministry’s commitment to working closely with the OGP Ghana Office to ensure the Bill is developed through a consultative process. He noted that the draft was still at the research and information-gathering stage, and assured participants that once a working draft was ready, it will be shared with the OGP Ghana Secretariat for review and alignment with OGP processes.
Ms. Mary Addah, the Co-Chair, OGP National Steering Committee and the Executive Director of Transparency International-Ghana, explained the critical role of Civil Society and Citizens consultation to the OGP processes. She urged the Ministry to collaborate with collaborating Civil Society Organisations to secure citizen ownership and support for the Bill.
Hon. Sakparu reiterated his Ministry’s commitment to bringing on board all relevant Agencies, Civil Society actors, and other stakeholders to ensure broad consultation and safeguard citizens’ best interests.