MALAWI The most unique and interesting element on the website was the “Procurement” section which provided all procurement procedures, a feature lacking on many websites. In addition, the website has a well-detailed organisational structure starting with all board members and management. However, some pages had no content, for example the ‘Vacancies section.’ n = 20 Yes No 1. Does this website contain up to date information? Partial Additional Information • 2. Does the website contain the following: a) A description of its powers, as well as data on the organisational structure, the functions, and the responsibilities of the administration? • b) A list of laws, Acts etc. issued within the scope of its powers? • c) Reports, policies, programmes? • d) Budget and expenditure? • e) Information about procurement procedures, signed contracts? • f) Vacancy and employment procedures? • g) The address, telephone number, and working hours of the institution? • h) The contact details of specific public officials? • i) A mechanism to request and receive a response to electronic messages and requests for information? • Total Score: 13/20 CATEGORY 2: REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION The following questions were sent to Central Medical Stores Trust (CMST): 1. What are some of the key challenges affecting the work of Central Medical Stores Trust (CMST)? 2. What are some of the key issues that you consider before engaging any firm to supply or distribute drugs? 3. There have been reports of delays in the distribution of drugs as well as reports of drug theft; how does CMST deal with such issues? 4. What are some of the measures CMST is implementing to improve the supply and distribution of drugs in the country? 5. As the only supplier of drugs to all government and public hospitals in the country, what plans do you have to effectively deal with reports of drug shortages in most of these hospitals? n = 20 Yes 1. Is there an official designated to take and respond to information requests? • 2. Did the institution reply within 21 days? • 3. Did the institution respond to the request for information? • 4. Does the authority publish their procedures for dealing with information requests? 5. Did the institution provide all of the information requested? • 6. Did the institution provide written reasons for the refusal of information? • 7. Did the institution disclose information about its operations, budgets, structure etc. • 8. Did the authority provide information without questioning the aims and motivations of the applicant? • 10. Was the information received clear and understandable? Total Score: 13/20 • • Partial Additional Information Public Relations Manager • 9. Did the institution acknowledge your request for information within 7 days? 16 No The ‘Contact Us’ section can be used to engage the Trust and access relevant information.