Republic of South Sudan - UNESCO

Republic of South Sudan

National Information Commission

Strategic Plan 2020-2022

SOUTH SUDAN INFORMATION COMISSION Strategic Plan 2020-2022 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOREWORD ............................................................................................................................................... 4

1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 7

2 SITUATION OF THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION IN SOUTH SUDAN .................................... 9

3 STRATEGIC DIRECTION 2020-2023 .......................................................................................... 12

3.1 Vison .......................................................................................................................................... 12

3.2 Mission ...................................................................................................................................... 12

3.3 Strategic areas ........................................................................................................................ 12

4 STRATEGIC PRIORITIES .............................................................................................................. 12

4.1 Priority Area 1: Build Effective Demand For, and Use Of, Public Information ...... 12

4.1.1 Objective 1: To strengthen the capacity of civil society organisations to

promote the right to information ................................................................................................ 13

4.1.2 Objective 2: To Sensitize Students on their Right to Information and How to

Exercise it......................................................................................................................................... 14

4.1.3 Objective 3: To Raise Citizens’ Awareness on their Right of Access to

Information ....................................................................................................................................... 15

4.2 Priority Area 2: Foster Effective Implementation and Compliance with the Right

of Access to Information Act .......................................................................................................... 17

4.2.1 Objective 2.1: To Strengthen the Capacity of Public Agencies to Effectively

Implement the Act .......................................................................................................................... 17

4.2.2 Objective 2.2 To Promote Public and Private Agencies’ Compliance with the

Act………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19

4.3 Priority Area 3: Enforce Implementation of the Right of Access to Information

Act…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 21

4.3.1 Objective 3.1 To ensure Effective Compliance with the Right of Access to

Information Act ............................................................................................................................... 21

4.4 Priority Area 4: Increase Institutional Capacity of the Information Commission . 23

4.4.1 Objective 4.1 To Strengthen the Institutional Capacity of the Information

Commission to Effectively Perform its Mandate ................................................................... 23

4.4.2 Objective 4.2 To Increase the Visibility and Improve Profile of the

Information Commission.............................................................................................................. 25

4.5 Priority Area 5: Develop and Implement Monitoring, Learning and Evaluation

Procedures........................................................................................................................................... 26

4.5.1 Objective 5.1 To Document Lessons and Share Lessons and Experiences in

the Advancement of the Right of Access to Information in South Sudan ...................... 26

5 ANNEXES ......................................................................................................................................... 28

5.1 Annex 1: Intervention Logic ................................................................................................ 28


5.2 Annex 2: Implementation Schedule .................................................................................. 32

5.3 Annex 3: Budget ..................................................................................................................... 35

5.4 Annex 4: Organisational Structure .................................................................................... 38


FOREWORD

September 27, 2019

Hon. Nicodemus Ajak Bior Kom

Commissioner, Information Commission

Republic of South Sudan

Juba

This is the first strategic plan for the Information Commission of South Sudan covering the calendar years

2020-2022. This strategic plan is largely informed by the need to successfully implement the Right of

Access to Information Act 2013, that was passed by Parliament and signed into law by the President in

2013.

The Strategic Plan was generated through a consultative process involving stakeholders both internal and

external to the Information Commission. The Plan was developed following consultations with government

and oversight bodies, media representatives and CSOs and is based on bench-marking and inputs from

stakeholders, including the staff and management of the Information Commission and representatives from

the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Rule of Law

Advisory Unit at the United Nations’ Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), and an expert consultant from

the African Freedom of Information Centre in Uganda.

The Commission also coordinated efforts with the line Ministry of Information Communication,

Technology and Postal Services and other good governance institutions like the Parliamentary standing

Committee of Information and Postal Services, the Public Grievances Chamber, the Anti-corruption

Commission and the National Audit Chamber. This plan contains historical background of the Information

Commission; it also contains well-defined strategic goals, strategic objectives, actionable strategies,

performance measurement and indicators, and factors that could hinder achievement of the set targets

This Strategic Plan is the Commissioner’s interpretation of the provisions of the Transitional Constitution

of South Sudan 2011 that established the Information Commission and defined its roles and objectives as


an integral part of the Government. This elaboration is an attempt to extract operational plans from the

provisions of the Constitution and from the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the

Republic of South Sudan R-ARCSS), The Right of Access to Information Act 2013, Article 19 of the

Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and People’s

Rights and the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) of 1989, ratified by South

Sudan in 2019.

This Strategic Plan systemized documentation is to remind ourselves in the Commission what we have to

do, when and how. It is our internal guiding document for delivering the core operational services, for

internal management, and for developing a world class right of access to information regime in the region

and beyond. Each and every member of the Commission has a critical role to play in making this plan a

success. All Information Commission staff are committed to owning this strategic Plan and are expected to

ensure its full implementation. If implemented, the plan will allow the Commission to realize its target

objectives within the set timeframe.

This plan is a communication to our principles, the people of South Sudan, of the steps we intend to take to

deliver the services that we have been mandated to provide to the citizens. While the Information

Commission reports will be availed to the citizenry, most of our interactions with the public will among

other be conducted directly through the Public Information Officers to be stationed at various public

institutions, or through direct complaints to the Commissioner, and indirectly through The President, The

Legislature, the Human Rights Commission, Civil Society and the Media.

We live and work in global environment in which the task of national building is shared, thus this strategic

plan is a communication to our friends and partners in development. It helps them understand our

aspirations, evaluate our capabilities, appreciate our difficulties, and make a determination of whether we

should be helped and if so, how.

The Right of Access to Information Commission is governed not only by national statues but also by

international instruments and professional Institutions related to the right of access to information. This

Strategic plan is our communication to our peers in the International arena concerned with issues of right

to access information as a fundamental human right, our vision and how we plan to conduct the affairs of

the right to public information in the Republic of South Sudan. This document will enable them to evaluate

our strategic thinking, and hopefully, assist us where we fall short of the generally accepted standards and

practices.

This Strategic Plan is also a notice to all stakeholders that we have the will to do what is required of us.

However, there are constraints and obstacles that would require assistance from those with the means and

will to supply the necessary resources.

To facilitate the reader, I have started with the historical background of South Sudan Information

Commission including its establishment, achievements made so far, its challenges and opportunities

available to the start of this Strategic Plan for the next three years. It is in this context I want to set sail the

seven goals of this strategic plan that fall within five key strategic priorities, namely: (i) building

institutional capabilities of the Commission; (ii) promoting enabling measures to process requests; (iii)

providing effective adjudication and enforcement; (iv) supporting the training of public officials; (v)

increasing public records management; (vi) increasing public awareness of the right to access information

and (vii) establishing effective monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. The efforts of my leadership and


contributions of my colleagues will have to recognize certain critical factors for the success of this Strategic

Plan including its implementation challenges and monitoring and evaluation.

I would like to record here my deep appreciation of the contributions made by the facilitators and

contributors of this Strategic Plan generation exercise, Ms. Claudia Sayago and Chelsea Fewkes of

UNMISS, and Doreen Loboka of UNESCO and I also appreciate the immense contribution from other

stakeholders.

Finally, as the first Information Commissioner of the Republic of South Sudan, I see this document as my

humble contribution to the legacy of the Information Commission and its emergence as a credible authority

for government oversight. When my time to leave comes, my successors should have a firm foundation to

build on.

Thank you


1 INTRODUCTION

The Right of Access to Information (RTI) has been considered a crucial tool for democracy and good

governance throughout the world. The importance of the right of access to information for empowering

citizens to promote accountability and transparency cannot be overstated. The exercise of the RTI in South

Sudan has gained momentum with its recognition as a fundamental right in the Interim Constitution of

South Sudan 2011 (as amended), by enactment of the Right of Access to Information Act in 2013, and the

subsequent establishment of Information Commission in September 2015.

The progress towards the achievement of constitutional provision and the establishment of a separate Act

and an independent body is largely the result of a long public campaign led by media and civil society

organizations in South Sudan since 2006. However, the exercise of RTI in South Sudan has been

significantly low. Though there is a growing demand from civil society for information, exercise of RTI is

still not as per the expectation.

The public bodies that are responsible for dissemination of information through proactive disclosure or as

per the demand of information are not being able to significantly implement RTI. Similarly, the Information

Commission is struggling for its own institutionalization for effective execution of RTI since its

establishment almost three years back. These three major stakeholders of RTI – the civil society (demand

side), public bodies (supply side) and National Information Commission (NIC) (executive body) – have

been making some progress towards promotion, protection and implementation of RTI but lack of

coordinated effort by these stakeholders has resulted in major barriers for information demand and supply.

In order to amalgamate the efforts for maximum resource utilization, the Information Commission has

initiated a three-year National Strategic Plan of Action on RTI including separate strategic priorities and

activities for the Commission. The Strategic Plan was driven and informed by consultations with members

of the Government of South Sudan, TNLA, independent oversight bodies, CSOs and media representatives

who contributed to completing a SWOT analysis and identifying key strategic priorities for the

Commission. To build on these important consultations and develop constructive strategic objectives that

fit the South Sudanese context, the Commission partnered with UNESCO and UNMISS to secure an expert

consultant from the Africa Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), based in Uganda. In June 2019, AFIC’s

Executive Director,

Mr. Gilbert

Sendugwa, visited

Juba to meet with

Commission

members to develop

this Strategic Plan.

During this visit, Mr

Sendugwa also

participated in a

seminar hosted by

the Information

Commission and

led panel

Group photo from Seminar on Access to Information: Comparative Practices and Opportunities, June 2019


discussions on regional approaches to implementing access to information laws and policies and

opportunities for enhancing accountability in public contract management.

On behalf of Information Commission, I show my immense pleasure in presenting the current Plan of

Action. The current plan has been developed with technical support from Mr. Gilbert Sendugwa, Executive

Director of the Africa Freedom of Information Centre, UNESCO, and UNMISS’s Rule of Law Advisory

Section. On behalf of the Information Commission, I would like to thank UNESCO and UNMISS for their

constant support during the process of formulating this current Strategic Plan.

The current National Strategic Plan of Action on Right to Information in South Sudan 2019-2023 will be

useful in guiding the policy makers, government bodies, the National Information Commission, civil

society organizations, and citizens who are responsible for the implementation and exercise of the Right of

Access to Information Act. I urge all the stakeholders to mainstream their effort towards the priority

activities listed in the plan in order to achieve the desired goals within the stated timeframe.

My special gratitude to Mr. Peter Garang Thieel, Executive Director, of the Information Commission and

Mr. Joseph Garang, the Director General of Technical Services for their efforts in concretizing the ideas of

preparing the Strategic Plan for RTI sector. I also thank my colleague from UNESCO, Ms. Doreen Loboka,

for their financial support and their active participation in the formulation process. I also take this

opportunity to thank Ms. Claudia and Chelsea Fewkes of the UNMISS Rule of Law Section of their

unwavering support. I also thank the staff of the National Information Commission (NIC) for their

contributions.


2 SITUATION OF THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION IN SOUTH SUDAN

The exercise of the right of access to information in South Sudan gained momentum with its recognition as

a fundamental right in the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan 2011, by enactment of the Right of

Access to Information Act (the Act) in 2013, and the subsequent establishment of Information Commission

in September 2015.

Consistent with the Model Law on Access to

Information for African Union member states,

the 2013 Right of Access to Information Act

provided for establishment of an independent

Information Commission to oversee and promote

its implementation. The functions of the

Commissioner include monitoring and reporting

on compliance, recommending necessary

reforms to public bodies, training public officials

on the Act, referring cases, as appropriate and

creating public awareness on the right of access

to information. The Information Commissioner is also obliged to submit annual and other reports to the

National Assembly.

Since the appointment of the Information Commissioner and subsequent establishment of the Information

Commission, key efforts have been made to strengthen the institution and promote citizens access to

information. For example, office premises have been secured, an organizational structure proposed, budget

for the Commission negotiated, essential staff recruited, alliances and partnerships with key stakeholders

built. A strategic planning process was initiated and included wide consultations with various stakeholders

including ministries, departments and agencies, members of parliament, civil society and media

organisations.

During the consultative workshop held in July 2018, stakeholders were sensitised on the Act, deliberated

on key factors for effective implementation of the Act and conducted a strength, weakness, opportunities

and threats (SWOT) analysis of the right of access to information in South Sudan. This provided the

foundation for this Strategic Plan. As set out below, the Information Commission has several strategic

priorities that are directed at increasing awareness and utilisation of the right to information at all levels of

South Sudan’s community and developing policies and practices that enable the Commission to execute its

mandate and ensure enforcement of the right to information.

At the continental level in the context of the African Union, citizens’ right of access to information is

recognized in six treaties including the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights, African Charter on

Democracy Elections and Governance, the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating

Corruption, the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration, the African

Union Youth Charter and the African Charter on Statistics. Of these the Republic of South Sudan has

ratified only two: the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and the African Charter on Democracy

Elections and Governance.

Participants at public consultations, July 2018


While these two ratifications are important additions to South Sudan’s human rights framework,

unfortunately the Republic of South Sudan is yet to fulfil obligations under Article 62 of the African Charter

on Human and Peoples Rights regarding its reporting obligation. Failure to report has constrained the ability

of the Commission to receive guidance and advice on how to advance citizens’ right of access to

information and other rights protected by the Charter.


SWOT Analysis for the Information Commission

Strengths

i. Commissioner appointed18 members of

staff

ii. Office in good location with spacious

facilities and basic equipment

Weaknesses

i. Inadequate technical capacity, personnel

numbers insufficient,

ii. Lack of technical skills in RTI enforcement

iii. Technology outdated

iv. Administrative inefficiency – common to

most institutions

v. Lack of compliance with statutory

obligations

vi. Inadequate funding

Opportunities

i. There is always a need/demand for

information

ii. Appetite for institutional collaboration in

South Sudan

iii. Political will in protecting the right to

access information – as demonstrated by

the Act

iv. Support from development partners

v. Availability of best practices from other

jurisdictions

Threats

i. Lack of public awareness of their right to

information

ii. Lack of public awareness of the

Information Commission and its functions

iii. Inadequate support from development

partners

iv. Political instability in the country

v. High level of illiteracy

vi. Non-compliance with laws from bodies

holding information

vii. Interference with irrelevant authorities in

powers of Commission


3 STRATEGIC DIRECTION 2020-2023

3.1 Vison

A society where every citizen is fully informed and enjoys the right of access to information and

participates in public decision-making.

3.2 Mission

To be a trusted oversight agency upholding the right of access to information for every citizen.

3.3 Strategic areas

1. Build effective demand for, and use of, public information

2. Foster effective implementation and compliance with the Right of Access to

Information Act, 2013

3. Enhance implementation of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2013

4. Increase the institutional capacity of the Information Commission

5. Develop and implement monitoring, learning, and evaluation procedures

4 STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

4.1 Priority Area 1: Build Effective Demand For, and Use Of, Public Information

Access to information is critical for ordinary citizens to understand and play a positive role in the realization

of sustainable peace and security following the signing of the September 2018 peace agreement signed

between the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and the opposition. Having experienced decades

of conflict and a major war shortly after independence, the risk of cycles of conflicts reoccurring is quite

high due to significant deficit of trust among citizens and leaders. Free flow of information helps to rebuild

and sustain trust between and amongst various actors.

Equally important, access to information supports the realization of United Nations Sustainable

Development Goals and enables progressive measurement of the extent to which governments are taking

measures to realise SDGs in critical areas like peace and security, health, education, gender equality and


economic growth among others. To promote awareness of the right to information by citizens, the

Commission has identified key target groups and will strengthen their capacities in the following ways:

4.1.1 Objective 1: To strengthen the capacity of civil society organisations to

promote the right to information

4.1.1.1 Activity 1.1.1: Develop/ Adapt CSO Right to Information Training Manual

The Information Commission will develop a training manual for civil society to facilitate development and

execution of training programmes for civil society organisations working in various fields. The manual will

be designed in an easy to use format with illustrations and examples for trainers.

Output:

Manual developed and distributed to CSOs

4.1.1.2 Activity 1.1.2: Training Civil Society Organisations

Access to information is a tool civil society organisations can use to advance objectives of their work.

Whether they work in the sphere of accountability and anticorruption, gender equality, human rights

promotion or humanitarian work, access to information is a central tool for these organisations. Yet, at the

moment this tool is not recognized and utilised.

Thus, the Commission will carry out a mapping of CSOs working in various spheres in South Sudan and

train them on the application of access to information in their spheres of work. The advantage of this

approach is that, in some cases, these organisations already have funding for their respective activities and

thus, the training will be geared at empowering them to understand and use access to information as a tool

to further and scale up their work. Training content will cover understanding the right to information, how

access to information links with other sectors and themes, turning issues into information requests,

preparing and filing information requests and making appeals. In recognition of the role civil society play

to holding officials accountable, the training will cover obligations of public agencies, monitoring and

implementation, as well as using regional and international mechanisms to hold agencies accountable.

Output:

90 CSOs trained over the life of the Strategic Plan

4.1.1.3 Activity 1.1.3: Training of Right to Information Trainers

To overcome constraints the Commission has in meeting its mandate for all citizens, the Commission will

conduct a training of trainers’ (ToT) course to create a pool of trainers who can be engaged by CSOs and

other partners to conduct right to information training. Selection will be done strategically targeting

personnel from organisations with a strong interest in accountability, human rights and good governance.


Output:

30 Trainers trained over the strategic planning period

4.1.2 Objective 2: To Sensitize Students on their Right to Information and How to

Exercise it

Schools provide a strategic entry point to reach out to thousands of future policy makers, implementors and

human rights advocates. At the same time, it provides a group of engaged citizens who can immediately

start using acquired knowledge to advance their own rights and/or intervene on behalf of their communities.

4.1.2.1 Activity 1.2.1 Organise Right to Information Seminars for University Students

During the life of this Strategic Plan, the Information Commission will carry out RTIseminars targeting

both students and university academic and administrative staff. The aim of the seminars will be to create a

cadre of RTI advocates at an early stage who can champion and utilize RTI as a tool to promote and defend

human rights. In addition, it will be aimed at sensitizing university lecturers on RTI with a view of

encouraging them to integrate it in their courses.

Outputs:

5 seminars conducted

200 participants reached

4.1.2.2 Activity 1.2.2 Mainstreaming Right to Information in School Curriculum

The Information Commission will work with the Ministry of Education to mainstream the right of access

to information in the curriculum for teacher training colleges and schools. This will ensure that when

teachers and students are graduating from respective institutions, they have knowledge of the importance

of citizens access to information.

Outputs:

ATI in curriculum for teacher training colleges

ATI in primary and secondary school curriculum


4.1.3 Objective 3: To Raise Citizens’ Awareness on their Right of Access to

Information

The first level of implementation of any law or

policy is awareness raising. Knowledge among

citizens creates the understanding of their rights

and how to exercise them as well as their

obligations while exercising such rights.

Without the population’s awareness of the law

and how to apply it, it is doubtful whether such

a legislation can be an instrument for the

improvement of their livelihoods. In view of

this, the Commission will undertake the

following public awareness activities.

4.1.3.1 Activity 1.3.1 Organise Celebrations to mark September 28th International Day for

Universal Access to Information

September 28th was proclaimed by UNESCO as the International Day for Universal Access to Information.

This day provides a platform for governments, civil society, citizens, and intergovernmental agencies to

create awareness of the importance of citizens right of access to information, to take stock of the progress

and draw strategies on how to advance this right. In this regard, every year, the Commission in partnership

with various stakeholders will organise activities to mark this day. Annual themes will be agreed based on

strategic issues at the time.

Outputs:

IDUAI celebrated every year

At least 3 new constituencies mobilized and sensitized on the application of the right to information

in respective spheres

At least 3 public agencies make new commitments to promote effective implementation of the

Right to Information Act

4.1.3.2 Activity 1.3.2: Conduct radio Right to Information Awareness Talk Shows,

Quizzes and Jingles

Radio and word of mouth remains the largest sources of information and education for many South

Sudanese, particularly women and people with disabilities who need public information to develop

themselves. The Commission will carry out a series of radio awareness programmes including radio talk

shows, quizzes and jingles.

In respect to quizzes, partnerships with respective radio stations will be made where radio deejays and

presenters will ask education questions on RTI and callers with correct answers will be awarded prizes. The

aim will be to ensure that through the programme people are educated for example on how to make requests,

where to make requests, how and where to file appeals, etc. Radio stations will gain from building loyalty

Stakeholders receive copies of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2013


of listeners, that in turn influences advertisers and brings in more revenue which could mean the Information

Commission benefits from free or subsidized rates.

Outputs:

4 radio talk shows per month

Quiz run for 120 days per year

240 jingles per year

4.1.3.3 Activity 1.3.3 Produce and disseminate Right to Information Posters and

Messages

Visual messaging has great power to inform both people with formal education and those without. In this

respect, the Commission will print and distribute RTI messages on posters which will be displayed at

strategic places where ordinary citizens visit from time to time. These could include, but not be limited to,

police stations, schools, hospitals, bus stations and markets among others. Messages will be expressed

both in words and pictorial formats.

Output:

10,000 posters over the strategic plan period

4.1.3.4 Activity 1.3.4 Produce and Disseminate Right to Information Booklets and Flyers

The Information Commission will produce and disseminate RTI booklets and flyers with core messages

targeting identified key audiences, especially the disadvantaged and vulnerable groups. Booklets will target

infomediaries such as NGOs to explain to readers about the right of access to information and a step by step

guide on how it can be exercised. Examples on how access to information links with and can be applied to

thematic areas and sectors will be provided to enable a wider audience of actors to appreciate and integrate

access to information as a tool in their work.

Two-page foldable flyers with information on “know your right to information” will be produced and

disseminated. These will highlight basic information about the law, including the relevant Article of the

Constitution and the Act, and information on which agencies are required to disclose information, whom

to ask and how to appeal if access is not granted.

Outputs:

10,000 flyers produced and disseminated

2000 booklets produced and disseminated

4.1.3.5 Activity 1.3.5 Support Schools to Start Right to Information Clubs

The Information Commission will support the establishment and running of RTI clubs in selected secondary

schools. During seminars for secondary school and universities, students will be encouraged to form RTI

clubs in respective schools and universities. Once a club is established the Commission will organise and

conduct training for club members to ensure that they understand citizens right of access to information.

They will also be introduced to tools and ideas of how members of respective clubs can promote the right


of access to information among members and the entire school community. Approaches such as debates,

letter writing, quizzes, drawing competitions and music, dance and drama will be discussed to enable

students to explore what is most appropriate for them. The clubs will be encouraged to formulate action

plans with activities to advance RTI in schools and universities.

Output:

4 clubs established and trained in Juba– 2 secondary schools and 2 universities – both public and

private

4.1.3.6 Activity 1.3.6 Organise Targeted Right to Information Workshops and Seminars

for the General Public

The Information Commission will from time to time organise RTI workshops and seminars for members

of the general public. These will be strategically organized to reach out to citizens who would otherwise be

left out or target special events to reach out to ordinary citizens. Consideration would be given to members

of the business community (formal and informal), informal community groups, displaced persons and

women. In addition, seminars will be timed and arranged around special events such as market days.

Output:

3 seminars held

4.2 Priority Area 2: Foster Effective Implementation and Compliance with the

Right of Access to Information Act

4.2.1 Objective 2.1: To Strengthen the Capacity of Public Agencies to Effectively

Implement the Act

4.2.1.1 Activity 2.1.1 Develop or Adapt Right to Information Training Manual for Public

Officials

Various actors such as the African Freedom of Information Centre have developed tools and resources for

training public officials on citizens’ right of access to information as well as obligations to disclose

information, assist requesters, refer requests and/ or make and submit annual reports. The Information

Commission will adapt an access to information training manual for public officials in South Sudan. The

new manual will be customized to the legislation and context of South Sudan. When finalized, the manual

shall be disseminated and popularized for use by various officials responsible for the implementation of the

Act in public and private agencies.

Outputs:

Adapted manual for public officials

500 copies disseminated


4.2.1.2 Activity 2.1.2: Train Information Officers on the Act

The ability of officials to implement and comply with obligations of the Right of Access to Information Act

will be dependent on their knowledge of the law and how to implement it. In this regard, during the life of

this strategic plan the Information Commission will conduct technical training of at least 120 Information

Officers. The training will cover key topics such as understanding citizens’ right of access to information,

obligations created under the Act, proactive disclosure obligations, receiving and processing information

requests, interpreting exceptions, dealing with appeals, annual reporting and promotional measures. It is

expected that at the initial workshop participants will develop Access to Information Implementation Plans

for respective agencies.

To ensure effectiveness of the training, follow-up workshops with trained officers will be carried out at

least 12 weeks following the first training. This workshop will discuss participants experiences on

information requests received and granted, information requests received and access denied, appeals and

how they were dealt with, institutional processes and systems established to implement the law, monitoring

and tracking of information requests and proactive disclosure by the agency and procedures established for

annual reporting.

Outputs:

Technical training provided to at least 120 Information Officers

2 or 3 follow up workshops

4.2.1.3 Activity 2.1.3: Develop Template for Right to Information Implementation Plans

To provide incentive for planning and implementation of the law by respective agencies, the Information

Commission will, in consultation with public agencies, develop a standard template for Access to

Information implementation plans. This will simplify the process of planning by the agencies and also

standardize content of implementation to assist reporting requirements under the Act.

Output:

Template developed and disseminated

4.2.1.4 Activity 2.1.4: Provide Mentorship and Support for Effective Implementation

Following the initial training, the Information Commission will provide ongoing mentorship and coaching

to public agencies on implementation of the law. This will take the form of visits, phone calls and reflection

meetings with Information Officers to discuss challenges and opportunities in the implementation of the

law, systems establishment, etc.

Output:

120 Information Officers mentored


4.2.2 Objective 2.2 To Promote Public and Private Agencies’ Compliance with the

Act

This strategic objective seeks to create

awareness within public and private bodies of

their obligations under the Act to establish and

promote measures to facilitate their

compliance with the laws.

4.2.2.1 Activity 2.2.1 Develop and

Popularize Guidelines for Annual

Reporting by Agencies

Section 21 of the Right of Access to

Information Act obliges an Information Officer

of every public agency to report to the

Information Commissioner on compliance and

measures taken to implement the Act. To promote compliance with this provision, the Commission will

develop a template and guidelines for reporting. The guidelines will define a schedule of reporting, content

of reports and mechanisms to ensure compliance. The process of developing guidelines will involve

consultations with selected public agencies to ensure their input and context is well reflected.

Following finalization of guidelines and reporting template, measures to sensitise public officials on these

guidelines will be undertaken.

Outputs:

Guideline/ template for reporting by agencies

100 Information Officers/ agencies trained on the Guidelines

4.2.2.2 Activity 2.2.2 Organise Review Workshops and Meetings for Agencies

Following submission of reports by agencies, the Information Commission will review and summarise

emerging issues for feedback to respective agencies as well as those to inform the Information

Commissioner’s annual and other reports to the National Assembly. On the basis of these findings the

Information Commissioner will organise a reflection meeting with Information Officers to provide

feedback, clarify issues and develop a plan to address some of the issues that require further action. These

meetings will also be platforms for experience and knowledge sharing amongst Information Officers and

the Commission.

Outputs:

Summary of issues and recommendations

List of actions to improve compliance

Group discussions during public consultations, July 2018


4.2.2.3 Activity 2.2.3 Award Best Performing Agencies

A good compliance regime should provide mechanisms for sanction and incentives. To enhance incentives

for good implementation and compliance, the Information Commission in collaboration with civil society

and development partners will each year give Meritorious Awards for best performing agencies. The awards

will be preceded by an assessment of how individual public agencies comply with the Act including

designation of Information Officers, training of Information Officers, proactive disclosure, receiving and

responding to information requests, processing internal appeals and reporting to the Information

Commission among others. Civil society and media organisations will be mobilized to take part in the

assessment by providing information on information requests these organisations or their constituencies

have made to respective agencies, whether they received response within statutory time, and the outcome

of appeals, if any.

Outputs:

Methodology for assessment developed and disseminated to public agencies

List of best performing agencies

4.2.2.4 Activity 2.2.4 Develop and Disseminate Guidelines for Right to Information and

Records Management as well as classification of records

There is a strong correlation between the quality of records management and ability of agencies to respond

to information requests. Properly kept records makes it possible for requested information to be easily

retrieved and disclosed within statutory timelines. On the other hand, records which are not properly kept

mean records are difficult to trace, making response more challenging. The Information Commission will

work with relevant stakeholders to develop and popularize guidelines for access to information and records

management as well as classification of records. In doing so, a records management system will separate

accessible records from those that are protected in terms of the Act. Training for Records Officers on the

Guideline will be undertaken.

Outputs:

Guidelines for Records Management

Guidelines for classification of records

200 copies of ATI guidelines for classification and records management produced and disseminated

100 Records Management Officers trained on the Guidelines

4.2.2.5 Activity 2.2.5 Develop and Disseminate Guidelines for Access to Information and

National Security

Protection of records related to defence and national security is recognized under Section 30 of the Act. Yet

experiences and lessons from around the world show that protection is sometimes abused through

corruption and over application of the defence and national security exception. Records generated by

agencies in the defence and national security realm that pose no risk to security should be accessible under

section 22 of the Act. To avoid misinterpretation of section 30 of the Act, the Information Commission will

develop and popularize, in consultation with defence and security sector stakeholders, Guidelines for


Access to Information and National Security. These guidelines will classify the type of information that is

legitimately protected under national security interests.

Outputs:

Develop Guidelines on exceptions to right to access to information based on national security

Train National Security Service Officers on Guidelines.

4.3 Priority Area 3: Enforce Implementation of the Right of Access to

Information Act

4.3.1 Objective 3.1 To ensure Effective Compliance with the Right of Access to

Information Act

This objective seeks to ensure that public and private agencies covered by the Right of Access to

Information Act comply with their obligation to avoid the risk of non-compliance and emergency of

impunity. The following measures will be implemented.

4.3.1.1 Develop other Access to Information Templates

In order to simplify processes for individuals to access public records and public agencies to manage

information requests, the Information Commission will develop a set of templates including access to

information request form, transfer of request form, response to information form, and agency register to

capture statistics of information requests received by the agency among others.

Outputs:

Access to information request form

Transfer of information request template

Response to information request template

Information request register

4.3.1.2 Activity 3.1.1 Monitor Compliance by Agencies

Consistent with Section 40 of the Right of Access to Information Act, the Information Commission will

monitor implementation of that Act to ensure that public and private bodies effectively implement the law

and comply with obligations imposed by the same Act. Findings will be the basis for the Commission’s

orders, advice, recommendations, capacity building programmes and/or report to the National Assembly.

During the time life of this strategic plan 100 public and private bodies will be targeted.

Outputs:

Report with findings, issues and recommendations to agencies

Implementation/ follow-up plan on issues

Recommendations the National Assembly


4.3.1.3 Activity 3.1.2 Establish a System for Receiving and Processing Complaints

The effectiveness of an appeals systems is dependent on the trust parties have to the appeals body. Delays

or failure to process appeals undermines public trust and credibility. The Commission will establish a

system for receiving and handling appeals in a timeous manner. The system will include internal processes

for receiving, documenting, reviewing complainants, seeking clarification or additional information

engaging parties complained against and providing feedback to parties in a timeous manner. It will also

cover information to complainants and parties so that everyone has the information they need and know

what to expect from the Commission.

Once the system has been established the Commission will increase public awareness campaigns on the

existence of the Information Commission and its roles with special emphasis on appeals and appeals

processes to enable people to understand and utilize the mechanism whenever they need to.

Outputs:

System for receiving processing appeals

List of resolved cases per quarter

4.3.1.4 Activity 3.1.3 Receive and Review Reports by Public Bodies

Upon receipt of Access to Information reports from public bodies, the Commission will review for

compliance with scope and content of reporting. Complying agencies will be issued with certificate of

compliance with reporting alongside observations and recommendations to respective agencies. Agencies

whose reports do not meet the requirements will be requested to update and resubmit reports.

Outputs:

ATI implementation reports from public bodies

Summary of issues from implementation reports

4.3.1.5 Activity 3.1.4 Produce and Submit Annual and other Report to the National

Assembly

The Information Commission will in compliance with Section 40(2) produce and submit to the National

Assembly Annual Access to Information Reports. The reports shall highlight the status of implementation

and compliance with provisions of the Act by public and private bodies, measures undertaken by the

Commission to promote and protect citizens right of access to information, audited financial statements and

institutional strengthening issues of the Commission.

When the situation demands, the Commission will from time to time produce and submit to the National

Assembly other reports for the advancement of the right of access to information in South Sudan in line

with Section 40(3).

Outputs:

3 annual reports to the National Assembly

2 other reports to the National Assembly


4.3.1.6 Activity 3.1.5 Establish Right to Information Helpline

In order to facilitate complainants to file their complaints or seek clarity and information, the Information

Commission will establish a Helpline. A programme assistant will be assigned to this task and trained to

effectively provide this service. Every case received will be recorded and senior leadership of the

Commission will from time to time check the register to ensure that clients are receiving appropriate

guidance when they call in.

4.4 Priority Area 4: Increase Institutional Capacity of the Information

Commission

4.4.1 Objective 4.1 To Strengthen the Institutional Capacity of the Information

Commission to Effectively Perform its Mandate

4.4.1.1 Activity 4.1.1

Engage Public Service

to Approve New

Structure

The Commission is

mandated to undertake

promotional, capacity

building, oversight and

enforcement activities to

ensure citizens enjoy their

constitutional right of access

to information. It is also

obligated to report annually

to the National Assembly

and such other times as may

be required with recommendations on how to promote effective implementation and advancement of

citizens access to information. In order to fulfill these mandates, an appropriate organisational structure and

staff will be required. Under the current strategic plan, the Information Commission will engage the

Ministry of Public Service, and the Council of Ministers – through the Ministry of Information – to approve

an appropriate organizational structure for the Commission.

Output:

Ministry of Public Service and Council of Ministers engaged on matters to approve organizational

structure

Members of the Information Commission prepare Strategic Plan, June 2019


4.4.1.2 Activity 4.1.2 Recruit 4 Technical Staff

Upon approval of the proposed organizational structure, the Commission will recruit 4 technical staff with

strong legal, strategic communications and monitoring and evaluation to support the effective

implementation of this strategic plan and realization of the Commission’s mandate.

Output:

4 staff recruited

4.4.1.3 Activity 4.1.3 Systems and Policies

An organizational synthesis will be done to determine institutional policies required and those already in

place. Based on the findings, new policies will be developed to support the effective running of the

organization, fundraising efforts and proper use of public funds.

Output:

Develop internal guidelines for the Commission on use of finance, HR, and administrative

guidelines – including a code of conduct

4.4.1.4 Activity 4.1.4 Train Staff of the Information Commission on Right to Information

Oversight

Upon approval of new organizational structure and recruitment of new staff, the Information Commission

will organise technical training for staff to ensure that staff have adequate knowledge and skills on RTI to

effectively serve the public.

Output:

Annual training for all staff

4.4.1.5 Activity 4.1.5 Upgrade and Maintain Internet

Regular and up-to-date communication and real-time information is critical for the Information

Commissions work. To this end the Information Commission will upgrade and maintain steady internet to

ensure that it can accessed easily by citizens who may want to file complaints or share experiences with the

Commission. This will also be done to provide a reliable mechanism for public bodies to communicate with

the Commission.

Output:

Reliable and fast internet connectivity

4.4.1.6 Activity 4.1.6 Equipment & Vehicles

The Information Commission will procure equipment to ensure smooth running of the programmes of the

organization. These will include generator, desktop computers, photocopier and filing cabinets. In addition,

vehicles will be procured to support field activities and movement to support public bodies for effective

implementation of the Act.


Outputs:

New generator

Office equipment – including desktops, photocopiers, file storage

Vehicles for Commission engagements

4.4.1.7 Activity 4.1.7 Fundraising and Resource Mobilization

Upon finalization of the strategic plan, fundraising efforts will be undertaken to mobilise financial and non-

financial resources from government, development partners and CSOs to enable effective implementation

of the strategic plan. These efforts will include engagement of key stakeholders in government such as the

Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Information, the Council of Ministers and the National Assembly among

others.

A mapping of development partners and CSOs working on human rights, democracy and accountability

sectors will be engaged to offer support.

A launch of the strategic plan will be undertaken where key stakeholders and potential funders will be

engaged.

Output:

Launch strategic plan and invite relevant line ministries including Ministry of Finance, Ministry of

Information, TNLA Committee on Information and international donors and partners

4.4.2 Objective 4.2 To Increase the Visibility and Improve Profile of the

Information Commission

The Information Commission is positioned to play a key role to ensure that every citizen can enjoy their

right of access to information. In this regard, the Commission will undertake a series of measures to boost

its profile.

4.4.2.1 Activity 4.2.1 Develop and Implement Communication Strategy

The Information Commission will develop and implement a communication strategy to engage the various

stakeholder groups and boost the profile of the organization. The strategy will aim to increase the visibility

and profile of the Information Commission, mobilise support for the Commission’s programmes and create

understanding of the role of the Information Commission among the general public. The strategy will guide

on the determination of key audiences, messages and channels for delivery of the messages.

Output:

Adopt and implement communication strategy


4.4.2.2 Activity 4.2.2 Redesign Website and Shift Hosting

The Commission will redesign its website to give it a fresh look and use it to communicate and mobilise

support for the implementation of the strategic plan. The website will be regularly updated with relevant

content about the Commission and its programmes.

Output:

Website functional and operated by Commission staff

4.4.2.3 Activity 4.2.4 Publish Newsletters

A quarterly newsletter will be developed and disseminated in line with the Commission’s communication

strategy.

Output:

12 newsletters drafted and published

4.5 Priority Area 5: Develop and Implement Monitoring, Learning and Evaluation

Procedures

4.5.1 Objective 5.1 To Document Lessons and Share Lessons and Experiences

in the Advancement of the Right of Access to Information in South Sudan

4.5.1.1 Activity 5.1.1. Learning and Reflection Meetings with Key Stakeholders

The Information Commission will on a semi-annual basis organise reflection meetings to review its

progress towards realization of strategic plan goals. The meetings will be comprised of staff of the

Commission and a selection of key stakeholders from public agencies, civil society and development

partners.

Outputs:

Summary of achievements and issues

Updated implementation plan

4.5.1.2 Activity 5.1.2 Document and Disseminate Lessons and Learning

The Commission will from time to time document cases studies on the usefulness of citizen access to

information and disseminate among citizens, civil society, public bodies, media and development partners.

Through these stories, knowledge will be captured and disseminated for others to learn from them.


4.5.1.3 Activity 5.1.3 Annual Reviews

At the end of each year, the Commission will

hold review meetings to discuss progress on

the implementation of the strategic plan.

Achievements will be noted for consolidation

while areas for improvement will be

identified and prioritized for action.

Outputs:

Summary of achievements and lessons

List of corrective measures and

modifications to be made

4.5.1.4 Activity 5.1.4 Mid Term Review

Mid-way through the life of the strategic plan a mid-term review will be held to take stock on the progress

and lessons. This will determine whether the Commission is on course to the realization of strategic plan

goals or whether drastic corrective measures are needed.

Outputs:

Summary of achievements and lessons

List of actions to be undertaken to boost implementation

Members of the Information Commission, June 2019


5 ANNEXES

5.1 Annex 1: Intervention Logic

Priority Area Strategic Objective Activities Indicators

Priority Area 1:

Build effective

demand and

use of public

information

1.1 To strengthen

capacity of civil society

to promote the right to

information

1.1.1 Develop/ adapt ATI training

manual for CSOs

Training manual

for CSOs

developed

1.1.2 Train CSOs and academic

institution on RTI

Number of CSOs

and academic

institutions trained

1.1.3 Training of trainers Number of Trainers

of Trainers trained.

1.2 To sensitise students

sensitized on right to

information and how to

exercise it

1.2.1 Organise seminars for

university students

Number of

Seminars

conducted and

university students

reached

1.2.2 Mainstream RTI in school

curriculum

School curriculum

developed

1.2.3 Carry out radio talk-shows Number of radio

talk shows

conducted

1.3 To raise citizens’

awareness on their right

to access and use

information

1.3.1 Celebrate International Day

for Universal Access to

Information

IDUAI celebrations

1.3.2 Conduct radio RTI awareness

talk shows, quizzes and jingles

Number of talk

shows and jingles

conducted

1.3.3 produce and disseminate RTI

posters and messages

Number of posters

developed and

disseminated

1.3.4 Information booklets & flyers Number of flyers

and booklets

produced and

disseminated

1.3.5 Support school RTI clubs Number of school

clubs established

and supported

1.3.6 Organise targeted RTI

workshops and seminars for CSOs

and journalists

Number of

seminars conducted

for CSOs &

journalists

Priority Area 2:

Foster effective

implementation

and

2.1 To strengthen the

capacity of public

agencies to effectively

implement the RTIA

2.1.1 Update and publicise list of

Information Officers

List of Public

Information

Officers developed

and publicized



compliance

with the Right

to Information

Act

2.1.2 develop/ adapt RTI training

manual for public officials

Trainning manual

for public officials

developed and

number of copies

disseminated

2.1.3 Train information officers on

RTIA

Number of

information

officers trained on

the RTIA

2.1.4 Develop template for RTI

implementation plan

Implementation

plan template

developed

2.1.5 provide mentorship and

support for effective

implementation

Number of

Information

officers mentored

2.2 To promote public

and private agencies’

compliance with RTIA

2.2.1 Develop template and

guidelines for RTI Annual

reporting by agencies

Annual reporting

Guideline

developed

2.2.2 Organise review workshops

and meetings for agencies

Number of review

workshops and

meetings held

2.2.3 Awards for best performing

agencies

Number of

agencies awarded

with RTIA

Meritorious

Awards over the 3-

year period

2.2.4 Develop and popularize

guidelines for RTI and records

management as well as

classification of records

Guidelines for RTI

and records

management and

classification

developed and

popularized

2.2.5 Develop and disseminate

guidelines for Access to

Information and National Security

Guidelines for ATI

& National

Security developed


RTIA Regulations

RTIA Regulations

developed

Priority Area 3:

Enforce

compliance

with the Right

of Access to

Information

Act

3.1 To ensure effective

compliance with RTIA

obligations

3.1.1 Monitor compliance by

agencies

Report with key

recommendations

submitted to

relevant bodies

3.1.2 Receive and process appeals Number of cases

handled and

document by IC

3.1.3 Receive and review reports

by agencies

% of agencies

reporting

3.1.4 Produce and submit Annual

Reports to the National Assembly

Number of Annual

reports submitted to



the National

Assembly over the

3-year period

3.1.5 Establish RTI Helpline RTI Helpline

established and

operational

Priority Area 4:

Institutional

Capacity of the

Information

Commission

4.1 To strengthen the

institutional capacity of

the Information

Commission to

effectively perform its

mandate

4.1.1 Engage Public Service to

approve new structure

Organizational

structure approved

by the Ministry of

Public Service

4.1.2 Recruit 4 technical staff Number of new

technical staff

recruited

4.1.3 Systems and policies Relevant internal

guidelines/policy

documents

developed

4.1.4 Train staff of the Information

Commission on RTI oversight

Number of

Information

Commission staff

trained

4.1.5 Upgrade and maintain

internet

Internet connection

4.1.6 Equipment & vehicle Number of office

equipment

purchased

4.1.7 Fundraising and resource

mobilization

Resource

mobilization

strategy developed

4.2 To increase the

visibility and improve

profile of the

Information

Commission

4.2.1 develop and implement

communication strategy

communication

strategy developed

4.2.2 Redesign website and shift

hosting

Website developed

and functional

4.2.3 produce and disseminate the

Information Commission’s Annual

report

Corporate Annual

report produced

and disseminated

4.2.4 Publish Newsletters Number of

newsletters

developed

Priority Area 5:

Monitoring,

Evaluation and

Learning

5.1 To document lessons

and share lessons and

experiences in the

advancement of the right

of access to information

in South Sudan

5.1.1. Learning and reflection

meetings with key stakeholders

Number of

learning and

reflection meetings

held and number of

stakeholders

reached through the

meetings

5.1.2 Document and disseminate

lessons and learning

Number of lessons

documented and

disseminated



5.1.3 Annual reviews Documented list of

follow-up actions

5.1.4 Mid Term Review List of lessons


5.2 Annex 2: Implementation Schedule

Strategic

objective

Activities Timeframe (quarters)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

1.1 To strengthen

capacity of civil

society to promote

the right to

information

1.1.1. Develop/ adapt ATI

training manual for CSOs

1.1.2. Train CSOs and academic

institution on RTI

1.1.3. Training of trainers

1.2 To sensitise

students sensitized

on right to

information and

how to exercise it

1.2.1 Conduct RTI seminars for

university students

1.2.2 Mainstream RTI in school

curriculum

1.2.3 Radio talk shows on RTI

1.3 To raise

citizens’

awareness on their

right to access and

use information

1.3.1 Celebrate International Day

for Universal Access to Information

1.3.2 Conduct radio RTI awareness

talk shows, quizzes and jingles

1.3.3 Produce and disseminate RTI

posters and messages

1.3.4 Produce and disseminate

information booklets & flyers

1.3.5 Support school RTI clubs

1.3.6 Organise targeted RTI

workshops and seminars for CSOs

and journalists

2.1 To strengthen

the capacity of

public agencies to

effectively

implement the

RTIA

2.1.1 Update and publicise list of

Information Officers

2.1.2 Develop/ adapt RTI training

manual for public officials

2.1.3 Train information officers on

RTIA


Strategic

objective


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

2.1.4 Develop template for RTI

implementation plan

2.1.5 provide mentorship and

support for effective

implementation

2.2 To promote

public and private

agencies’

compliance with

RTIA

2.2.1 Develop template and

guidelines for RTI Annual reporting

by agencies

2.2.2 Organise review workshops

and meetings for agencies

2.2.3 Awards for best performing

agencies

2.2.4 Develop and popularise

guidelines for RTI and records

management as well as

classification of records


guidelines for Access to Information

and National Security


RTIA Regulations

3.1 To ensure

effective

compliance with

RTIA obligations

3.1.1 Monitor compliance by public

bodies

3.1.2 Receive and process appeals

3.1.3 Receive and review reports by

agencies

3.1.4 Produce and submit Annual

Reports to the National Assembly

3.1.5 Establish and maintain RTI

Helpline

4.1 To strengthen

the institutional

capacity of the

4.1.1 Engage Public Service to

approve new structure

4.1.2 Recruit 4 technical staff


Strategic

objective


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Information

Commission

4.1.3 Develop institutional systems

and policies

4.1.4 Train staff of the Information

Commission on RTI oversight

4.1.5 Upgrade and maintain internet

4.1.6 Equipment & vehicle

4.1.7 Fundraising and resource

mobilization

4.2 To increase

the visibility and

improve profile of

the Information

Commission

4.2.1 develop and implement

communication strategy

4.2.2 Redesign website and shift

hosting

4.2.3 produce and disseminate the

Information Commission’s Annual

report

4.2.4 Publish Newsletters

5.1 To document

lessons and share

lessons and

experiences in the

advancement of

the right of access

to information in

South Sudan

5.1.1. Learning and reflection

meetings with key stakeholders

5.1.2 Document and disseminate

lessons and learning

5.1.3 Annual reviews

5.1.4 Mid Term Review


5.3 Annex 3: Budget

SN Description Estimated Budget ($) Total ($)

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

1 Priority Area 1: Build effective demand for and use of public

information

1.1 Capacity of civil society to promote the right to information

strengthened

1.1.1 develop/ adapt ATI training manual for CSOs 10,000 10,000

1.1.2 Train CSOs and academic institution on RTI 15,000 - 15,000

1.1.3 Training of trainers 7,000 - 7,000

1.2 Students sensitized on their right to information and how to

exercise it

1.2.1 Organise seminars for university students 12,000 12,000 - 24,000

1.2.2 Mainstream RTI in school curriculum - - 10,000 10,000

1.1.3 Carry out radio talkshows 4,000 4,000 4,000 12,000

1.3

To raise citizens’ awareness on their right to access and use

information

1.3.1 Celebrate International Day for Universal Access to Information 6,000 6,000 6,000 18,000

1.3.2 Conduct radio RTI awareness talk shows, quizzes and jingles 5,000 5,000 5,000 15,000

1.3.3 produce and disseminate RTI posters and messages 10,000 10,000 - 20,000

1.3.4 Information booklets & flyers 40,000 - 40,000

1.3.5 Support school RTI clubs 20,000 20,000 40,000

1.3.6 Organise targeted RTI workshops and seminars for CSOs and

journalists

24,000 - - 24,000

2 Priority Area 2: Foster effective implementation and

compliance with the Right to Information Act

2.1 To strengthen the capacity of public agencies to effectively

implement the RTIA

2.1.1 Update and publicise list of Information Officers 6,000 6,000

2.1.2 Develop/ adapt RTI training manual for public officials 10,000 10,000

2.1.3 Train information officers on RTIA 55,000 55,000

2.1.4 Develop template for RTI implementation plan 3,000 3,000

2.1.5 provide mentorship and support for effective implementation 2,000

2,000 2,000 6,000




2.2 To promote public and private agencies’ compliance with

RTIA

2.2.1 Develop template and guidelines for RTI Annual reporting by

agencies

5,000 5,000

2.2.2 Organise review workshops and meetings for agencies 8,000 8,000 8,000 24,000

2.2.3 Awards for best performing agencies 27,000 27,000 27,000 81,000

2.2.4 Develop and popularise guidelines for RTI and records

management as well as classification of records

25,000 25,000 50,000

2.2.5 Develop and disseminate guidelines for Access to Information

and National Security

25,000 25,000

2.2.6 Develop and disseminate RTIA Regulations 25,000 25,000

3 Priority Area 3: Enforce compliance with the Right of Access

to Information Act

3.1 To ensure effective compliance with RTIA obligations

3.1.1 Monitor compliance by agencies 6,000 6,000 6,000 18,000

3.1.2 Receive and process appeals 0.00

3.1.3 Receive and review reports by agencies 0.00

3.1.4 Produce and submit Annual Reports to the National Assembly 5,000 5,000 5,000 15,000

3.1.5 Establish RTI Helpline 5,000 2,000 2,000 9,000

4 Priority Area 4: Institutional Capacity of the Information

Commission

4.1 To strengthen the institutional capacity of the Information

Commission to effectively perform its mandate

4.1.1 Engage Public Service to approve new structure 1,000 1,000

4.1.2 Recruit 4 technical staff 0.00

4.1.3 Systems and policies 15,000 15,000

4.1.4 Train staff of the Information Commission on RTI oversight 12,000 12,000 12,000 36,000

4.1.5 Upgrade and maintain internet 50,000 25,000 25,000 100,000

4.1.6 Equipment & vehicle 250,000 125,000 125,000 500,000

4.1.7 Fundraising and resource mobilization 5,000 5,000 5,000 15,000




4.2 To increase the visibility and improve profile of the

Information Commission

4.2.1 develop and implement communication strategy 15,000 15,000

4.2.2 Redesign website and shift hosting 70,000 70,000

4.2.3 produce and disseminate the Information Commission’s Annual

report

5,000 5,000 5,000 15,000

4.2.4 Publish Newsletters 12,000 12,000 12,000 36,000

5 Priority Area 5: Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning

5.1 To document lessons and share lessons and experiences in the

advancement of the right of access to information in South

Sudan

5.1.1. Learning and reflection meetings with key stakeholders 8,000 8,000 8,000 24,000

5.1.2 Document and disseminate lessons and learning 0.00

5.1.3 Mid Term Review 4,000 4,000 4,000 12,000

5.1.4 Annual reviews 6,000 6,000 6,000 24,000


5.4 Annex 4: Organisational Structure


STRUCTURE FOR THE DIRECTORATE OF TECHNICAL SERVICES, INFORMATION COMMISSION:

Ass. Insp. For

compliance

and regulation

unit

Insp. For

investigation,

resolution and

review unit

Insp. For

records and

archive mgt.

unit

Insp. For training,

research &

library mgt. unit

Insp. For

media and

information

unit

Ass. Insp.

For records

and archive

mgt. unit

Ass. Insp. For

investigation,

resolution and

review unit

Ass. Insp. For

training, research

& library mgt.

unit

Insp. For digital

library & website

unit

Insp. For Info.

Communication

Technology (ICT)

unit

Director of media & Technical Services Department

Deputy Director of media & Technical Services Department

Director of Access to Information Department

Director General, Directorate of Technical

Service

Deputy Director of Access to Information Department

Insp. For

compliance

and regulation

unit

Ass. Insp. For

media and

information

unit

Ass. Insp. For

digital library &

website unit

Ass. Insp. For Info.

Communication

Technology (ICT)

unit

Republic of South Sudan - UNESCO

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