As part of the Ghana Polls 2024 initiative, Open Foundation West Africa (OFWA) hosted an insightful workshop on Tuesday, 19th November 2024, at our office premises. The event brought together media professionals, Wikipedia editors, and volunteers to discuss the critical issue of combating misinformation and disinformation during the upcoming general elections in Ghana.

Themed “Combating Misinformation and Disinformation Ahead of the 2024 General Election,” the workshop delved into the far-reaching effects of false and misleading information, particularly in electoral processes. Participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions and shared their experiences, highlighting the challenges faced by the media and the online community in maintaining the integrity of information dissemination.

The Ghana Polls 2024 project, spearheaded by Open Foundation West Africa, aims to foster an informed and engaged citizenry by promoting access to accurate and reliable information during the electoral cycle. By equipping key stakeholders, such as media professionals and Wikipedia editors, with the necessary tools and knowledge, the project seeks to counter the spread of misinformation and disinformation, which can undermine the democratic process and erode public trust.

The workshop featured informative sessions led by experts from Code for Africa and the Wikimedia Foundation. Martins Ayotunde from Code for Africa highlighted the effects of misinformation and disinformation and how media professionals can combat them.

Abigail Adu-Daako and Nathan Forrester from the Wikimedia Foundation focused on how factual information and reports from journalists aid Wikipedia editors in combatting misinformation and disinformation.

These sessions emphasized the vital roles played by media professionals and Wikipedia editors in ensuring the accurate and timely dissemination of information related to the general elections. Participants gained valuable insights into fact-checking techniques, sourcing credible information, and leveraging digital tools to counter misinformation and disinformation.

The workshop also served as a platform for collaboration and networking, enabling participants to establish connections and explore potential partnerships in the fight against misinformation and disinformation. By fostering a strong community of stakeholders committed to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability, we can collectively safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.

The Ghana Polls 2024 project extends beyond this workshop, encompassing a range of initiatives to promote digital literacy, civic engagement, and fact-based reporting. As part of the project, a hackathon session will be held on the 8th December 2024 (a day after the general elections) at OFWA’s premises, Ground Floor of SAL Heights, Abelemkpe at 9:00am GMT

For more information on the Ghana Polls 2024, visit the project’s metapage 

Connect with us on our social media platforms to stay updated on the latest developments and upcoming events related to the Ghana Polls 2024 initiative. Together, we can build a more informed and engaged society, where misinformation and disinformation have no place in our democratic discourse.