Journalists start “disinformation laboratory” to limit the spread of fake news in Somalia
MOGADISHU, Somalia – The extent of fake news in Somalia could drop drastically following the launch of the “disinformation laboratory” aimed at revealing inaccurate news, especially at a time when the country is heading for an election that could define the country’s fate.
During the weekend, a media guard [FESOJ] launched the campaign which, among other things, targets false information, false news, hate speech and propaganda. Social media platforms are the most important goals, says the federation.
The country will hold elections within the next sixty days, and given the growth of social media, unscrupulous elements have often targeted the platforms to feed the public with fake news, which sometimes encourages different groups. Youth are important targets for fake news.
One example is a news headline that said the Somali parliament wanted to reject the prime minister after he opposed an extension of time for outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo. It later turned out to be fake news.
Journalists, key bloggers and social media influencers in Somalia say there is a need for extra caution during the presidential election and the parliamentary election process.
Somalia also has a poor record in terms of human rights and freedom of the press, which also makes it difficult for journalists to have a robust platform to inform the nation. The government has often been accused of trying to push the press through the introduction of an old and outdated penal code.
The management signed a negotiation agreement last week, which gave room for the election. It is at this point that social media is blatantly abused and thus the decision to come up with the disinformation laboratory that would demystify some of the news published on various platforms.
The Ministry of Information says it will also increase awareness campaigns about fake news through state media and in collaboration with civil society groups and religious leaders.
Meanwhile, Somali political leaders have appealed to the media to carry out their duties professionally and responsibly as the Horn of Africa grows up for what promises to be a competitive presidential election, VOA reported.
AXADLETM
.
