Ghana’s Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has sounded the alarm on the dangers of misinformation, disinformation, and mal-information, emphasizing that these phenomena pose a significant threat to society globally.
Speaking at a workshop for journalists organized by The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Abubakar stressed that addressing this challenge requires a collective effort.
The workshop, themed “Empowering Journalists for Credible Elections: Enhancing Reporting and Fact-Checking Skills,” aimed to equip journalists with essential tools to verify information and promote accurate reporting.
Abubakar warned that misinformation and disinformation can have far-reaching consequences, potentially more harmful than the COVID-19 pandemic if left unchecked. The spread of false information, facilitated by AI and sophisticated online tools, complicates the information landscape.
To combat this, Abubakar urged journalists to prioritize professionalism and ethical standards, particularly as Ghana approaches its next general election. She emphasized the importance of fact-checking during political coverage, citing the U.S. presidential debate as an example of real-time fact-checking.
The Minister pleaded with journalists to protect Ghana’s peace and stability through responsible reporting, highlighting international examples where rumors led to violence. She encouraged Ghanaian journalists to adopt similar fact-checking practices to prevent the spread of false information.
PRINPAG President Andrew Edwin Arthur echoed Abubakar’s sentiments, emphasizing the media’s critical role in fostering peace, democracy, and accountability. He stressed the need for journalists to adhere to ethical reporting standards during the general election.
The workshop underscored the growing global challenge posed by misinformation, disinformation, and mal-information, which threatens democratic processes, social cohesion, and law and order.
Abubakar’s call to action resonated with participants, who recognized the importance of responsible reporting in maintaining Ghana’s peace and stability.
As Ghana prepares for its next general election, the media’s role in promoting accurate information and preventing the spread of misinformation will be crucial.
By prioritizing fact-checking and ethical reporting, journalists can help safeguard Ghana’s democratic processes and ensure a peaceful election period.
Addressing the dangers of misinformation, disinformation, and mal-information requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including the government, media, and the public.
