The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has urged the government to take “decisive action” against technology firms and media houses that allow their platforms to be used to spread misinformation, disinformation, and divisive narratives.

Additionally, the MFWA has called on media organizations, political parties, civil society, and community-based organizations to empower citizens with the knowledge and technological skills needed to identify fake content. This initiative aims to reduce the spread of half-truths and misrepresentations disseminated through some media outlets.

These recommendations were highlighted in an MFWA study that examined the prevalence of misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and polarized narratives in Ghana.

Launched in Accra on Wednesday, the study revealed that the dissemination of half-truths and fabrications is widespread in Ghana, primarily driven by political actors, media outlets, and social influencers.

The study identified social media as the “basic instrument” for misinformation and disinformation. However, it also pointed out that mainstream media, particularly those with political affiliations, are “guilty of disseminating hate speech and disinformation with impunity.”

“Most media houses appear to have little or no knowledge of the ethical codes guiding their conduct, while the owners of these platforms benefit from their unprofessional practices,” the report stated.

The study further confirmed that the spread of hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation peaks during general elections in the country. Researchers noted that some foreign interests exploit this phenomenon to influence decision-making, especially in Africa.

Misinformation and disinformation were categorized into political, religious, economic, and scientific forms. The study found that some journalists failed to verify information before publication.

“Economic disinformation is becoming common in Ghana due to attempts to transition to a cashless economy. Religious disinformation fuels existing tensions, while political disinformation is rampant, particularly during election periods,” the report noted.

In response, the MFWA has called for community outreach and sensitization programs to highlight the harmful effects of misinformation and disinformation. It also emphasized the need to establish fact-checking desks in newsrooms to promote fact-based reporting and combat the spread of falsehoods.

“All key actors, including political parties, peace institutions, regulators, media organizations, civil society organizations (CSOs), and religious bodies, should intensify their roles in carrying out educational and socialization programs, particularly targeting the youth, who are most vulnerable,” the study recommended.

MFWA further encouraged stakeholders to form networks to counter misinformation, disinformation, polarization, and hate speech at both national and regional levels.

“Technology firms and social media platforms such as Facebook, X, TikTok, WhatsApp, and others should implement measures to flag misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and polarizing narratives before they reach the public,” it stated.

The study also called for stronger regulations on tech firms, similar to measures currently being implemented in the Global North. Additionally, it urged the introduction and enforcement of regulatory frameworks for media content.

Ms. Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), noted that social media algorithms prioritize engagement over accuracy, amplifying falsehoods and making it difficult for people to distinguish between truth and lies. She warned that AI-generated content and deepfakes could be used to manipulate public opinion and emphasized the need for a balance between free speech and the responsibility of governments, tech companies, and civil society to curb misinformation.

Mr. Hooman Nouruzi, Head of the Political and Governance Team at the British High Commission, reiterated the UK government’s commitment to strengthening governance and democracy in Ghana. He stressed the importance of addressing misinformation and disinformation.

“Safeguarding against the risks of misinformation and disinformation is crucial to deepening Ghana’s democracy. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that all possible efforts are combined to prevent the interference of other states through misinformation and disinformation,” he stated.

He also underscored the role of an independent and credible media in fostering public trust and urged journalists, social media influencers, and political actors to be agents of change.