ZAMBIA RECOMMENDATIONS ATI is important because: • Access to information is fundamental and a right for every citizen. • Access to information allows citizens to participate in the governance process. • Access to information enables the public to be active citizens rather than passive subjects of those in power. • Access to information is a proven tool for fighting corruption. Corruption thrives where there is no information because people cannot question what they do not know. This is why: • Zambia urgently requires an access to information legislation, not only to counter a culture of secrecy, but to impose a legal obligation on government and public institutions to provide information. • Public institutions should work on strengthening their communication and information strategies to ensure that the public has swift and easy access to information. • Institutions should also use social media platforms to communicate programmes, policies and other vital information, rather than using it predominantly for publicity and information-sharing on events, as is often the case. 100