In conversation with Ouedraogo and Uppiah

Academic Perspectives on Environmental Information Access in Africa

In recognition of the 2025 International Day for Universal Access to Information, the Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria,  presents a thought-provoking podcast episode exploring the theme ‘Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age.’ The episode is hosted by Belinda Matore and features insights from Lassané Ouedraogo and Marie Valerie Uppiah, distinguished academics engaged in the intersection of environmental governance, human rights, and sustainable development in Africa.

The discussion examines barriers to and opportunities for enhancing access to environmental information across Africa. Lassané Ouedraogo, a PhD researcher and environmental law specialist, highlights that access to environmental information is not confined to ecological concerns alone. Rather, it is integrally connected to the protection and realisation of fundamental human rights, including the right to life. He highlights the significance of transparency and accuracy in the dissemination of environmental information to ensure that communities are adequately informed and empowered.

Echoing this view, Marie Valerie Uppiah, an expert in international trade law, law of the sea, and ocean governance, emphasises the multifaceted nature of environmental information. She illustrates how its accessibility is intrinsically linked to a broad spectrum of rights, including the rights to health, water and sanitation, and socio-economic development. She references the landmark case //africanlii.org/akn/aa-au/judgment/achpr/2001/35/eng@2001-10-27">SERAC v Nigeria, and illustrates how legal precedents have established the essential role that environmental information plays in holding states accountable and advancing environmental justice.

Uppiah also discusses the role of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) as essential tools for informing communities about the ecological implications of infrastructure projects. She cites the innovative example of MoNatir (“My Nature”), a digital platform developed in Mauritius that provides real-time information on key environmental indicators such as air quality, beach conditions, and waste management. She describes the platform as a “revolutionary” tool in facilitating public engagement and environmental awareness.

In concluding the discussion, Ouedraogo reiterates the role of communities as active agents in environmental governance. He calls for a culture of civic curiosity and public vigilance, urging communities to take initiative in seeking out information related to their environments and government-led development projects.

Speaker Biographies

• Lassané Ouedraogo
  Acting Coordinator of the LLM in International Trade and Investment Law in Africa
  Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria
• Marie Valerie Uppiah
  Senior lecturer in International Trade Law and Law of the Sea & Ocean Governance a
  University of Mauritius