Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has announced government plans to merge the country’s access to information and data protection frameworks into a single legal instrument, describing the move as a major step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and privacy protection in the country.

The Minister made the announcement during the national validation of a draft document reviewing the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) Act at the 50/50 Group Hall in Tower Hill, Freetown.

The event brought together journalists, broadcasters, civil society organizations, and media stakeholders to discuss proposed reforms aimed at improving the independence, efficiency, and financial sustainability of the national broadcaster.

Speaking at the forum, Mr. Bah praised the Right to Access Information Commission (RAIC), describing it as one of the most effective oversight institutions on access to information in Africa.

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“Our Information Commission is one of the most-performing national oversight bodies on access to information in Africa,” the Minister said.

He disclosed that Cabinet has already approved a national Data Protection Policy, which proposes the integration of access to information and data protection under one stronger legal framework.

According to him, the proposed arrangement would transform the current Commission into an independent Authority with broader powers to both facilitate public access to information and protect citizens’ personal data.

Mr. Bah said the planned reforms are intended to address two major national priorities: empowering journalists and information seekers through improved access to public information, while also ensuring stronger safeguards for personal privacy in an increasingly digital environment.

He explained that the proposed Data Protection and Access to Information Bill will soon be presented to Parliament for enactment. If approved, the legislation is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s international standing on transparency and governance, while also enhancing protections for personal information.

The Minister emphasized that access to information remains a vital tool for journalists and citizens seeking accountability from public institutions. He noted that strengthening both information access laws and privacy protections would help create a more enabling environment for professional journalism and democratic participation.

Mr. Bah also used the occasion to stress the importance of reforming the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation Act. He said government wants to see a more independent and financially stable national broadcaster capable of improving journalism standards and contributing positively to Sierra Leone’s ranking on international press freedom indices.

According to the Minister, a strong public broadcaster is essential for promoting credible journalism, public education, and democratic accountability.

The validation workshop formed part of ongoing consultations on the review of the SLBC Act, with stakeholders examining proposals aimed at strengthening the operational independence and long-term sustainability of the state broadcaster.

The proposed merger of access to information and data protection laws would place Sierra Leone among a growing number of countries adopting unified legal frameworks to balance transparency and privacy rights.

The government’s latest policy direction signals what officials describe as a broader effort to modernize the country’s legal and institutional framework governing information management, media freedom, and personal data protection.

The forthcoming parliamentary consideration of the Data Protection and Access to Information Bill, alongside reforms to the SLBC Act, is expected to shape the future of media regulation and public accountability in Sierra Leone.