Isaboke: Govt projects must have communication plans from the start under new policy

The government is enhancing coordination, funding and public engagement through the new National Government Communication Policy, according to Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke. Speaking in a televised interview, Isaboke emphasized that communication must be a fundamental component of government projects from the very beginning.

He stated that communication will also be a key aspect of performance management, requiring ministries to demonstrate their communication efforts related to projects and programs. The policy aims to streamline government communication, establish a unified source of information, and clarify roles for officials and communication structures.

Isaboke noted that previous government communication efforts have fallen short of meeting the demands of development programs, with inadequate communication support for many initiatives. The new framework will coordinate communication across various government bodies, with the Government Spokesperson amplifying official positions, Cabinet Secretaries communicating policies within their ministries, and Principal Secretaries overseeing implementation.

A National Communication Centre will provide real-time factual information and receive public feedback, promoting two-way communication. Isaboke highlighted the speed at which misinformation spreads through social media, underscoring the need for timely and credible government communication. He cited communication during the El Niño weather phenomenon as an example, where technical agencies provide scientific data and communicators translate it into accessible language.

The PS stressed the importance of continuous engagement with citizens, responding to criticism and providing clear information on public programs, with the message that over-communication is necessary.