Mucheru: Access to Gov’t information to be made easier

A 15-member team that is expected to improve communication from government has begun its work to review existing policies.

Speaking during the launch, Information CS Joe Mucheru said the recommendations of the task force will help the government communicate its agenda effectively in the digital era.

“There have been many complaints that the media and the public at large find it hard to access government information and that is why we are putting up the necessary infrastructure to correct this,” he said.

The team led by David Makali has already held two meetings as it works to deliver on the broad mandate within the three months that were allocated.

It will also advise on appropriateness of communication from the State and its consistency with constitutional requirements.

Information from the government will also be weighed against national goals and aspirations, emerging socio-economic trends and advances in ICT.

“Technology has continued to change the way we organise ourselves and therefore as government we have to continue evolving and ensure that we are communicating to people in the right places and that is why we have set up the task force to advise us on the same,” said the CS.

On his part, Mr. Makali echoed the sentiments of the CS that the team would focus on ensuring that Kenyans get easier access to State information as stipulated in the Constitution.

“We are going to face the challenge and make access to government information a reality, this also needs to trickle down to the county level where a lot of government development is being done,” he said.

Members of the task force include Alfred Ng’ang’a, Robin Njogu, Jane Gitau, Ruth Musembi, Prof. Murej MakOchieng, Dr. Abraham Mulwo and Umi Wabomba.

Others are Browne Kutswa, Paul Udoto, Cosma Gatere, Noella Mutanda, Gwaro Ogaro, Eunice Muthamia, Mbugua Njoroge as well as a secretariat from the ICT ministry.

Report by Simiyu Wanjala