Access to Information: A Citizen’s Guide to Knowing and Exercising Your Rights

Access to information is a constitutional right in Kenya, guaranteed under Article 35 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and supported by the Access to Information Act, 2016. The right enables citizens to obtain information held by public bodies and certain private entities, particularly information necessary for exercising or protecting their rights and freedoms. The information pack explains the legal framework governing access to information, including the obligations of county governments under the County Governments Act, 2012, and the importance of access to information in promoting transparency, accountability, public participation, and good governance.

The pack provides practical guidance on how citizens can exercise this right, including submitting written requests in English or Kiswahili, understanding response timelines, and seeking remedies when information is denied. It also explains legitimate limitations to disclosure, including matters relating to national security, privacy, legal proceedings, professional confidentiality, commercial interests, and economic management. Where a request is denied, citizens can appeal to the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ) and, where applicable, pursue further legal remedies. By making informed requests for public information, citizens can strengthen oversight, participate meaningfully in governance, monitor public resources, and hold public institutions accountable.