The media, disinformation
Thomas Nkhoma | Monday December 11, 2023 06:00
* Media Landscape:
• Southern Africa is home to a diverse media landscape, with both state-owned and independent media outlets. However, in some countries, media freedom may be restricted, and journalists might face challenges in reporting objectively. Media in Botswana is free. As media we enjoy relative freedom as compared to other countries despite some challenges with pockets of state harassment of journalists.
* Government Influence:
• In some countries in the region, there have been concerns about government influence over media outlets. This influence can potentially impact the objectivity and independence of news reporting. Government and advertisers have a subtle way of controlling private media especially those that may be deemed wayward. So, they are starved of advertising, which is their lifeline.
* Social Media and Disinformation:
• The rise of social media has played a significant role in shaping information dissemination. While social media platforms can provide a space for diverse voices, they also pose challenges related to the spread of disinformation and fake news. This is where we have the most challenge where people have now resorted to social media as a source of news. There are no ethical considerations here let alone standards, a fertile ground for disinformation and misinformation. Molepolole incident (no verification standards)
• * Political Context:
• Political events and developments in the region can impact the media environment. Elections, political unrest, and conflicts may contribute to the spread of misinformation. Our media is polarised along partisan politics. Therefore, it is easy for them to be influenced to spread propaganda
. • * Disinformation Campaigns:
• Disinformation campaigns can be used to manipulate public opinion and advance certain political agendas. These campaigns may originate from both domestic and international actors. We have some pseudo or sponsored social media influencers who are sometimes paid to launch disinformation campaigns.
* Media Literacy Challenges:
• Lack of media literacy can contribute to the effectiveness of disinformation. Improving media literacy is crucial for helping the public critically evaluate information and distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources. Most members of the public cannot distinguish between citizen journalism and mainstream media. Therefore, they are easily influenced by unverified social media reports. Molepolole incidents (need for media literacy workshops).
• * Regulatory Environment:
The regulatory environment for media varies across countries in southern Africa. Some countries have regulations that aim to control media content, which can impact press freedom. Lack of Access to Information Act leads to media speculation and this creates potential for disinformation. (Creates room for use of Sedition Laws, Cyber Crime and Data Protection Act). Call for Access to Information Laws. Media Practitioner Association Act (Media Practitioners Board, Ethics and Conduct Committee, Complaints and Disciplinary Committee and Appeals Committee)
. • * Journalist Safety:
• Journalists in the region may face safety concerns, including harassment and violence, especially when reporting on sensitive issues or exposing corruption
. • Building a collaborative project with journalists, civil society, and technology partners can be a useful strategy to fight disinformation. Press Freedom Summit next year
Citizen Journalism
A noble idea which was intended to bridge the information gap through eyewitness accounts and first-hand information. It is now being abused to spread disinformation, Misinformation and Mal-information.
*THOMAS NKHOMA, is MISA BOTSWANA chapter, chairperson.