The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zambia is on the Copperbelt to train journalists on the Access to Information (ATI) Law, which was enacted in 2023.
MISA Zambia Programme Associate for Policy and Advocacy, Margaret Phiri, says it is important to equip journalists with knowledge of the law so they can effectively use it in their day-to-day work.
Ms. Phiri explained that although a commencement order was issued, the law has not been fully operational due to a two-year transition period, which is expected to end in June 2026. She noted that this has created the need to sensitise journalists early, so that once the law becomes fully effective, they are prepared to use it to hold duty bearers accountable.
She added that the training is intended to ensure journalists are well-equipped with the necessary information on how to access public information, as well as understand the procedures and responsibilities involved in making such requests.
Ms. Phiri has also urged information holders to put their systems in order and ensure that public information is published regularly, in line with the requirements of the law.
