False election claims and AI-generated videos are spreading quickly across Africa during times of political and social unrest. The Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) warns these falsehoods thrive because many African governments restrict access to reliable information. This week, on the International Day for Universal Access to Information, FAJ called on governments to act now to guarantee public access to trustworthy facts.
FAJ’s president, Omar Faruk Osman, said information integrity cannot come from secrecy or censorship. “Governments must release information promptly and openly. Journalists must be able to report freely and safely, and the public must have the facts to challenge falsehoods and hold decision-makers to account,” he said.
The theme for this year’s international day, “Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder,” points directly to a crisis already affecting many African countries. False rumours shared on WhatsApp and AI-manipulated content circulate widely during elections, conflicts, and emergencies. These falsehoods increase tensions and erode trust in public institutions.
FAJ says governments often respond to misinformation and hate speech by imposing censorship or increasing state control through legal or illegal means. The federation rejects this approach. Instead, it calls for strong, independent journalism and safe conditions for reporters. It also urges more media literacy so the public can better judge the information they receive.
Practical barriers also stop many people from getting reliable information. Language differences, poor infrastructure, and limited internet access shut large parts of the population out of the conversation. FAJ wants governments to remove these barriers and make information available in languages people understand.
The federation insists every African Union member state must follow the Model Law on Access to Information for Africa. Countries with access-to-information laws should fully implement and enforce them. Those without such laws should adopt legislation that meets the model’s standards.
FAJ is also pushing digital platforms to be clearer about how they recommend and moderate content. These platforms play a big role in spreading information, both true and false. Transparency from them will help users understand what they see and why.
Access to information affects democracy, peace, social stability, and public accountability. It also gives people the ability to take part in decisions that affect their lives. The federation’s call comes at a time when many African countries have seen unrest linked to misinformation.
The conversation on access to information extends beyond just releasing data. It includes protecting journalists from attacks and censorship. It means creating an environment where the public can trust what they read and hear.
Omar Faruk Osman’s message is clear: open access to information is not optional if African countries want to tackle misinformation and restore trust. Without it, falsehoods will continue to spread unchecked, deepening divisions and unrest.
According to 3News.
