PRAAD Director Gregory Setse Urges Stakeholders to Prioritize Ghana’s Documentary Heritage for National Accountability

The Public Records and Archives Administration Department (PRAAD) has issued a call for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s documentary heritage. Speaking at a symposium organized in Accra to commemorate International Archives Week 2026, Director Gregory Setse underscored that the preservation of records is not merely a matter of historical bookkeeping but a foundational pillar for transparency, accountability, and sustainable national development. He emphasized that as the nation evolves, the systems used to manage its collective memory must also advance to meet the demands of a modern democracy.

During the event, Director Setse highlighted that state archives serve as the definitive record of government actions, providing the evidence necessary to hold public officials accountable. He noted that in an era of rapid technological change, modern governance must adapt to new information management practices. The director urged for a digital transformation within the sector to ensure that archival materials are not only preserved but also made accessible to the public. By integrating technological advances into record-keeping, PRAAD aims to create a more resilient and transparent administrative framework that can withstand the challenges of the digital age.

The Archivists and Records Managers Association of Ghana (ARMAG) joined the call, reinforcing the link between effective records management and the fundamental right to information. Representatives from ARMAG pointed out that without a robust archival system, the constitutional right to information remains difficult to realize. They identified several existing challenges within the current infrastructure, ranging from inadequate funding to a lack of specialized training for personnel. ARMAG urged the government to recognize records management as a strategic national asset that requires prioritized investment to support the country's democratic goals.

The symposium concluded with a consensus on the need for a unified approach to building stronger archival systems. Participants agreed that fostering a culture of meticulous record-keeping is essential for good governance and for providing citizens with the transparency they deserve. As Ghana continues its development journey, the strengthening of PRAAD’s capacity and the modernization of its processes will be critical in ensuring that the nation's history is preserved for future generations while serving as a tool for present-day oversight and public empowerment.