Apia, Samoa – The Government of Samoa, in collaboration with the University of the South Pacific (USP) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), officially launched the Right to Information (RTI) initiative on Wednesday, 24th January 2024. This landmark event, held in the heart of Samoa, marks a pivotal step in the Pacific island nation’s commitment to enhancing information accessibility for its citizens.
The Honourable Seu’ula Ioane Tua’au, Minister of Education and Culture, opened the ceremony with a warm Pacific greeting, extending his appreciation to the USP-STEMP RTI team for their dedication to bringing the project to fruition. The RTI initiative, which began in 2021, seeks to educate and empower Pacific communities on the significance of information in shaping informed decision-making processes.
“Today, we celebrate the progress of the RTI project, tailored to meet the unique needs of the Pacific,” stated Hon. Tua’au. He emphasised the Samoan government’s ongoing efforts to utilise Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to ensure that information is readily available to all citizens, thereby promoting equal participation in the country’s development.
The minister highlighted the future plans of establishing a central information portal and the potential development of a mobile app, which would further enhance information accessibility. The initiative is not just a testament to the government’s commitment but also a tool for individual empowerment, enabling everyone to access accurate information promptly.
The launch event introduced various RTI tools, including an eCourse, a dedicated website, and a mobile app designed specifically for Samoa’s needs. These tools are not only a milestone for Samoa but also set a precedent for other Pacific countries, showcasing the potential of RTI practices in the region.
The initiative has received significant support, including funding from the UK Government for the Pacific Anti-Corruption Project. The collaboration between educational institutions, NGOs, and Pacific Island countries aims to bridge the existing gaps in RTI practices within the community.
The RTI launch in Samoa is a clear indication of the Pacific’s move towards a more transparent, informed, and empowered society. The tools and resources introduced are expected to have a lasting impact, illuminating a promising path for the future of RTI in the South Pacific.
As the event concluded, the Honourable Minister expressed his confidence in the RTI initiative’s potential to foster a culture of informed decision-making and active participation across Samoa and beyond. The government’s dedication, coupled with the collaborative efforts of its partners, signals a new era of accessibility and empowerment for the Pacific region.
