Ensuring Transparency and Accountability under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) [Chapter 10:33]
As part of the country’s commitment to uphold transparency, accountability through public access to information, the Zimbabwe Media Commission, as provided by the Freedom of Information Act [Chapter 10:33], calls upon all designated entities to submit details of their Information Officers. The Freedom of Information Act empowers citizens and stakeholders to request access to information held by public entities, statutory bodies, and certain private organizations to ensure the realization of the constitutional right to access public information.
To facilitate this process, every designated entity is required by law to appoint an Information Officer, who is responsible for handling and responding to information requests by members of the public.
Who Should Submit?
All public entities that fall under the scope of the Freedom of Information Act are required to submit the names and contact details of their designated Information Officers, including but not limited to:
– Government Ministries and Departments
– Public Enterprises and Parastatals
– Local Authorities and Municipalities
– Educational and Research Institutions
– Private Sector Entities providing public services
Key Responsibilities of Information Officers:
– Receiving and processing requests for information from members of the public, journalists, and other stakeholders.
– Ensuring that information held by the entity is accessible in line with the provisions of the FOIA.
– Promoting transparency by facilitating access to public records.
– Protecting sensitive or exempted information in accordance with legal provisions
Submission Requirements:
To comply with the provisions of the FOIA, public entities are required to submit the following details:
1. Name of the Institution
2. Full Name of the Designated Information Officer
3. Position within the entity
4. Contact Information (email address and phone number)
5. Physical Office Address
Submission Deadline:
All entities are required to submit the requested information no later than 30 November 2024. Failure to comply with this legal requirement may result in penalties or sanctions as prescribed by the law.
How to Submit:
The requested information should be submitted through the following email address:
info@zmc.org.zw or foia@zmc.org.zw
Submissions may also be delivered in person to 108 Swan Drive, Alexandra Park, Harare.
For inquiries or clarification regarding this notice, please contact the Zimbabwe Media Commission Public Information Compliance Section on 0242 253572/5/6.
By submitting the details of your Information Officer, your organization will help ensure the public’s right to information is realized, in line with Zimbabwe’s commitment to a transparent and accountable governance framework.
