The Media Institute of Southern Africa-MISA Malawi has called on government to address barriers preventing citizens from accessing timely and reliable public information, saying this is key to combating disinformation.

In a statement marking the International Day for Universal Access to Information, MISA Malawi said limited access to credible information was creating room for false information to spread, particularly on social media.

MISA Malawi Chairperson Felix Washon said although government had taken steps towards implementing the Access to Information (ATI) Act since it became operational in 2020, challenges remained within government Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

“Easy and timely access to accurate and reliable public information is key to combating false information, which is rampant, especially on social media,” Washon said.

MISA Malawi cited findings from a January 2026 monitoring exercise by the Malawi Human Rights Commission, which assessed 58 institutions across seven districts.

The organisation said only 29 of the institutions had designated Information Officers, while just 17 had copies of the ATI Act and Regulations. Only five institutions had information manuals, while six had specific budgets for access to information activities.

The monitoring exercise also found that only 11 institutions had websites meeting minimum access-to-information requirements.

MISA Malawi has since called for the consistent publication of the names of Information Officers to enable citizens to know who to contact when seeking information from public institutions.

The organisation also wants government to ensure Information Officers are adequately trained, institutions proactively provide information and public information is accessible to people facing language or disability barriers.

MISA Malawi has further called for increased public awareness of citizens’ right to access information, including through funding in the national budget.

“Strengthening and realising access to information means moving beyond enactment of legislations and ensuring effective implementation for the benefit of the nation,” Washon said.

The International Day for Universal Access to Information is commemorated annually on 28 September to promote awareness of the right to seek, receive and impart information.