By KPC Reporter
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes global communication, African media systems are confronting a new existential threat: the weaponization of misinformation.
This came to the fore during the 2nd edition of the African Media Councils Summit, held in Arusha, Tanzania.
The host country’s Vice President Dr Philip Mpango sounded the alarm, warning that AI-generated content, while promising innovation, also risks eroding journalistic integrity and public trust.
“Africa is in the early stages of ICT integration and faces heightened risks of disinformation stemming from AI misuse,” Mpango cautioned.
He urged media institutions to develop legal safeguards that balance technological advancement with ethical journalism.
Reports have already shown that algorithmic propaganda are already influencing elections, polarizing societies, and undermining press freedom.
It emerged during the summit that the rise of generative AI has lowered the barrier for disinformation campaigns, enabling malicious actors to flood digital spaces with convincing but false narratives.
Confronting the challenge
To mitigate the evolving challenge, Dr Mpango said that Tanzania is finalizing a new National Information Policy to replace its 2003 framework.
The revised policy aims to curb excessive powers previously held by the Director of Information Services, reduce punitive measures against journalists and simplify licensing procedures.
It will also promote press freedom and ethical accountability.
The summit’s theme is “Advancing Media and Communications Regulation for Quality Journalism in Africa”.
It underscores the need for continental collaboration.
UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General in charge of communication, Dr Tawfik Jelassi called for sustainable responses to rapid technological change.
He urged African stakeholders to learn from global efforts to enhance media accountability.