Public Records and Archives Administration Department

Public Records and Archives Administration Department (PRAAD) is the organisation which takes care of public records, archives and documents in Ghana. This department took over the role of the National Archive of Ghana in 1997.

Concerns were raised in 2015 that insufficient funding meant that there were significant risks of the loss of vital national records in the event of natural disaster or human error.

In 2022 a report by Angela Berkoh (PRAAD), Harry Akussah (University of Ghana) and Noah Darko-Adjei (University of Ghana) was published which provided a feasibility study for the establishment of a digital repository at PRAAD.

Vision and Mission

PRAAD’s vision is to maintain “professional excellence in records and archival management,” while its mission is to “preserve Ghana’s collective memory and facilitate access to public and private records” using competent staff and modern technology.

Mandate and Legal Framework

PRAAD’s legal mandate, as provided by Act 535 (1997), includes establishing national records policies, advising public institutions on record-keeping, ensuring timely disposal or transfer of records, and preserving archives of enduring value. It operates three main divisions: Records Management, Archives, and Training & Research, each supported by administrative and technical teams.

Services and Infrastructure

PRAAD oversees the National Records Centre (opened in 1998) and the National Archives, which safeguards government records, maps, court documents, and cultural heritage materials. It also provides document binding, repairs, reprographic services, and a public search room (9:00–16:30, production by 15:00 weekdays).

Digitization and Preservation Efforts

In 2020, PRAAD completed the digitization of over 500,000 records, as part of national digital preservation efforts. Earlier, government plans in 2019 allocated funding for digitizing public records across ministries and agencies.

Challenges and Facility Upgrades

Despite efforts, PRAAD faces challenges including underfunded archive repositories and deteriorating historical documents. In 2018, key independence-era records were reported missing or in poor condition due to neglect. In 2021, the Volta regional office was renovated with support from the Gerda Henkel Foundation to address facility shortfalls.

Importance and Usage

PRAAD records are critical for academic research, legal evidence (e.g., maritime boundary cases), cultural heritage projects, and ensuring government accountability. Although some records remain physically fragile, digitization and awareness campaigns are underway to protect national memory.