An effort to deal with the major problem of mis/disinformation, hate speech, and polarizing narratives surrounding Ghana’s 2024 election is ongoing. To chart the way forward, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has held a public forum it labels “Countering Mis/Disinformation and Propaganda Narratives in Ghana’s 2024 Elections.”
This initiative is a component of an eight-month project undertaken by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) to step-up and fortify the ecosystem for countering mis/disinformation within the country.
The proliferation of mis/disinformation is seen as a significant threat to the integrity of elections, democratic progress and the peace and security of nations globally.
While this issue is widespread, it is particularly concerning in Africa, where deliberate efforts to distort the information ecosystem are on the rise at an alarming rate. These acts, frequently disseminated via social media, traditional media, and word-of-mouth, aim to erode the trust and confidence of our electorate and spurring on discord among our citizens.
The Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) Mr. Sulemana Braimah said the forum is to brainstorm, foster synergy and collaborate in dismantling any mis/disinformation campaigns aimed at disrupting our forthcoming election, regardless of their source.
The Minister for Information designate Mrs. Fatimatu Abubakar urged Ghanaians to confront mis/disinformation, and propaganda with unwavering determination and unwavering resolve. Panelists emphasized that countering Mis/Disinformation and propaganda narratives in Ghana’s 2024 election is a collective responsibility.
The Ghana Journalists Association, Christian Council of Ghana, Office of the National Chief Imam, Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, Catholic Bishops Conference, and Political Parties have jointly affirmed their commitment to protect the integrity of our electoral process with the aim of promoting peace throughout the December 2024 general election and beyond.
