This article examines the rights of the beneficiaries of the Right to Information (RTI)
and particularly their right to access official information controlled or disposed of by
public bodies. The RTI is part of the right to free speech and expression. The RTI is a
crucial human right. A number of different terms are used to describe the same right
viz., freedom of information, right to information, right to know and right of access
to information.
The discussion in this article is focused in examining the extent to which the right of
access to information in Tanzania is actually enjoyed and the nature of legal regime
pertaining to this right. The article assesses whether the existing legal framework is
adequate to support access to information. It also examines specific legal restrictions
that threaten or inhibit access to official information