TANZANIA SUMMARY Institution Website Request for information Total score 1. Workers Compensation Fund (WCF) 14 2 16 2. Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF) 15 18 33 3. Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) 11 20 31 4. Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO) 14 2 16 5. 15 0 15 6. Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries 12 0 12 7. 14 2 16 15 2 17 Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Water and Irrigation 8. Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment RESEARCH CONCLUSIONS Effective communication and reliable customer service are key components of the success of any organisation/institution. However, gaps in the execution of these important services abound, such that the progress of institutions is frustrated and, most importantly, the country’s pace of progress is stalled. On the other hand, access to information is a fundamental human right which promotes transparency and accountability, without which people cannot make informed choices. It is clear that most government institutions still have problems disclosing public information, especially when other organisations, institutions or individuals ask for it. Information has been recognised as a fundamental human right and since the emergence of new democracies, its promulgation has recently increased. Information is a necessity in all areas of human existence and states are moving away from a culture of secrecy to one of openness. Our simple but relevant studies have helped shape how leaders and public offices operate. In the same vein, we believe that these findings will contribute to the development of a culture of openness. THE MOST SECRETIVE PUBLIC INSTITUTION IN TANZANIA The MLF lacked relevant information on their website, which was offline for weeks, and neither acknowledged the receipt of the information request nor responded to it. The ministry’s office cellphone was not reachable for follow-ups. Given the criteria set by the study, the most secretive public institution and winner of the 2018 Golden Padlock Award is the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. THE MOST OPEN PUBLIC INSTITUTION IN TANZANIA The PSPF has the highest overall score as it responded within one day of the submission of the request. The institution acknowledged receipt of the information request by signing a copy of the letter. They also responded to the email and made a phone call to acknowledge receipt of it. The PSPF responded with detailed, clear answers and their website was wellorganised and user-friendly, containing relevant information. The most open public institution in Tanzania and winner of the 2018 Golden Key Award is the Public Service Pensions Fund. 85