Kenya Launches Comprehensive Access to Information Policy 2026 to Strengthen Open Governance
The government has officially launched the Access to Information Policy 2026, a new national framework designed to reinforce citizens’ constitutional right to obtain information held by public institutions. The policy aims to advance transparency, accountability and meaningful public participation in governance and national development.
Published under Gazette Notice No. 15992 on October 9, 2026, the policy identifies access to information as a critical instrument for safeguarding civil and political rights, socio-economic rights and communal or group rights. It seeks to overcome long-standing obstacles that have hindered effective implementation of the Access to Information Act 2016. These challenges include institutional secrecy, bureaucratic delays, weak records management systems, inadequate resources and limited public awareness of existing rights and procedures.
The framework outlines concrete measures to improve the processing of information requests, strengthen the legal and institutional architecture that governs disclosure, and ensure Kenyans can obtain the information they need to exercise their rights and engage in public affairs. Information, Communications and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has underscored that ready access to information enables citizens to monitor public expenditure, evaluate the quality of service delivery, participate in decision-making processes and hold public officials accountable.
The policy is closely aligned with Kenya’s long-term development blueprints, including Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. It responds directly to constitutional and legal obligations on access to information while supporting broader goals of citizen participation in development, governance and democratic processes. It also reflects international commitments that recognise access to information as essential to freedom of expression, the rule of law and public trust in government institutions.
Anchored primarily in Article 35 of the Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to access information held by the State and, where necessary to protect a right or fundamental freedom, information held by other persons, the policy also draws on related constitutional provisions and legislation covering public service, data protection, public finance, procurement, county governments, archives and communication.
Its scope covers national and county governments, public institutions, state and public officers, private bodies subject to the law, and Kenyan citizens. Clear responsibilities are assigned to institutions charged with disclosing information, overseeing compliance and resolving complaints.
Public entities and private bodies are required to enhance their disclosure procedures, maintain accurate and up-to-date records, and provide straightforward guidance on how members of the public can request information. Institutions are further encouraged to publish information proactively rather than waiting for formal applications. The policy promotes the use of websites, digital platforms and open data systems to expand access, while acknowledging that technology introduces risks such as cybercrime, privacy breaches and the circulation of false information that must be managed carefully.
Strong emphasis is placed on proper records management, including digitalisation and clear procedures for the retention and disposal of documents. Staff training, adequate resourcing and inter-institutional cooperation are identified as essential enablers of successful implementation.
Under the new approach, information requests must be processed promptly within the timelines set by law. Where access is refused, applicants must receive written reasons and be informed of their right to challenge the decision. Information may be supplied in electronic form, through inspection of records or as summaries, depending on the nature of the request. Access is generally free, although reasonable charges may be levied to cover the cost of reproducing or supplying the material.
The policy recognises legitimate exemptions. Information may be withheld where disclosure would threaten national security, interfere with ongoing legal proceedings, endanger life or personal safety, violate privacy or harm protected commercial interests. Additional exemptions apply to certain government deliberations, professional confidentiality and specific economic matters.
Importantly, the framework seeks to protect individuals who disclose wrongdoing in the public interest. It calls for safeguards against retaliation, discrimination, punishment or dismissal and supports thorough investigation of reported misconduct.
Applicants dissatisfied with decisions on their requests may pursue administrative complaints and judicial appeals through established channels. The Commission on Administrative Justice plays a central oversight role, while Parliament, the Judiciary, county governments, the Kenya National Archives and Documentation Services, the ICT Authority, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics are all expected to contribute within their respective mandates.
Public awareness is treated as a priority. The policy proposes sustained awareness campaigns, targeted training and stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organisations, professional bodies and development partners so that citizens understand both their rights and the practical steps required to obtain information.
The stated vision of the policy is an informed and empowered Kenyan society. Its mission is to facilitate equitable and secure access to information held by public entities and private bodies through effective legislative and institutional frameworks across the country.