To ensure the dissemination of accurate information during Ghana’s 2024 general elections, Dubawa West Africa, a prominent private investigative and fact-checking organization, has held a two-day intensive training program in Accra.
The initiative targeted journalists, bloggers, and influencers, equipping them with vital skills to combat misinformation before, during, and after the elections.
The training emphasized the importance of verifying information authenticity and credibility, enabling media professionals to lead efforts in fostering a well-informed electorate.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Media Literacy
Participants delved into topics such as information disorder, fact-checking methodologies, digital verification tools, blogging ethics, and the legal consequences of spreading falsehoods.
Dubawa’s Project Manager, Roselena Ahiable, highlighted the critical role of media professionals in combating the growing threats of misinformation and disinformation.
“This program addresses the lack of media literacy and verification skills among journalists, bloggers, and influencers.
By providing practical tools, we aim to empower participants to critically analyze information and ensure the public receives accurate and trustworthy news,” Ahiable stated.
Since its inception in 2019 and official launch in 2020, Dubawa West Africa has been at the forefront of fact-checking initiatives in Ghana.
Ahiable noted that the organization has extended its reach to rural journalists, addressing the challenges posed by the manipulation and weaponization of information.
“Journalists now recognize that information is a potent currency. While progress has been made, continuous efforts are required to integrate fact-checking practices across the board,” she added.
The Role of Digital Media in Election Reporting
Dr. Aurelia Ayisi, a Communication Lecturer at the University of Ghana, underscored the growing influence of bloggers, influencers, and content creators in shaping public discourse. With their expanding reach, they challenge the dominance of traditional media.
As the elections approach, Dr. Ayisi stressed the need for collaboration between journalists and digital creators to prioritize accuracy over speed in reporting.
“The integrity of the electoral process depends on the reliability of the information shared.
Accurate reporting builds public trust, while misinformation can erode confidence in the system,” she remarked.
Promoting Ethical Journalism
Former President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Affail Monney, urged media practitioners to adhere to ethical standards, emphasizing fairness, balance, and objectivity in their work.
He reminded journalists and bloggers of their pivotal role in ensuring voters make informed choices by scrutinizing political candidates and avoiding biases.
Monney further called on media professionals to uphold democratic principles through responsible reporting, transparency, and accountability. “Journalists must safeguard free and fair elections by presenting truthful narratives, investigating hidden agendas, and providing in-depth analyses,” he noted.
Additionally, he advocated for equal representation in media coverage, ensuring all political parties and candidates have opportunities to share their policies with the electorate.
A Unified Commitment to Information Integrity
The training program by Dubawa West Africa stands as a testament to the collective efforts of media professionals and organizations to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s electoral process.
With an informed and vigilant press, the 2024 general elections promise to reflect the true will of the people, free from the distortions of misinformation.
