Misinformation, disinformation: A concern for African journalists
Sharon Mathala | Monday May 20, 2024 08:06
As discussions unfolded and with elections looming across many African nations, the imperative for local journalists to spearhead the narrative became unmistakably clear. “It should be journalists in those countries feeding international media,” remarked one participant, striking a chord and echoing sentiments shared.
The resonance of this sentiment was palpable, reflecting upon instances where reports about Botswana veered dangerously from reality. As Botswana gears up for its own electoral cycle, the imperative for local journalists to wield their pens as instruments of truth grows ever more urgent.
Amidst the electoral fever, a concern looms: Misinformation and disinformation. In an age where digital and social media platforms reign supreme, the truthfulness of information is often overshadowed. It became more evident from the discussions shared that the advent of technology has blurred the lines between fact and fiction, therefore presenting a challenge for journalists.
Adding to the debate and giving a key note speech at the summit, the president of the African Development Bank (AFDB) Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina also highlighted the shift in the way people consume news.
“We live in dynamic times; technology continues to evolve rapidly.
The rise of the Internet, digital and social media platforms, has shifted the focus of audiences from a reliance on radio, TV, and print publications.
Two thirds of the global population now turn to the Internet, social media and a plethora of digital media and applications, and the Internet for their access to real time news, information, and entertainment.
This dynamic shift is largely fuelled by the widespread use of mobile phones,” he shared.
Journalists believed that the scourge of misinformation threatens to undermine the very fabric of journalistic integrity.
In the aftermath of the debate, the AFDB pledged its support, vowing to establish the African Journalists’ and Correspondents’ Fellowships to empower and equip journalists across the continent with the necessary skills.
Amidst the bustling streets of Nairobi, African journalists converged for the 2024 All-Africa Media Leader Summit for a three-day journey of introspection and resolution, Mmegi Staffer SHARON MATHALA joined the group