‘Media should lead fight against misinformation’

DAR ES SALAAM: THE media has been urged to take the lead in tackling the growing menace of misinformation, disinformation and malinformation (MDM), as the country heads into a critical election season.

Stakeholders have said the press has both the reach and the responsibility to guide citizens towards verified information and shield the democratic process from manipulation.

Speaking during an interview with the `Daily News’ recently, they argued that while social media platforms remain the main breeding ground for false content, professional news outlets when properly equipped with factchecking skills are the most reliable channels to counter falsehoods and provide clarity.

As election campaigns start, concerns have risen over a surge of false information targeting candidates and political parties.

Without an active media role, voters risk basing their decisions on distorted narratives, exaggerated promises and malicious rumours.

Analysts warn that unchecked misinformation not only misleads the public but also threatens democratic stability by eroding trust in electoral institutions and weakening citizens’ ability to make informed choices.

Media Institute of Southern Africa–Tanzania Chapter (MISA-TAN) Chairperson, Mr Edwin Soko, told the Daily News that the fight against MDM requires a united effort from journalists, editors, media owners and regulators.

He stressed that while the media must spearhead factchecking, the wider public also needs awareness on how to spot false content.

“Information disorders such as misinformation and disinformation are increasing every day. The first step must be to create public awareness. Citizens should be empowered to verify information they consume online before it is too late,” Mr Soko said.

He pointed out that much of the misinformation spreading on platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp and X originates from untrained citizen journalists, some of whom misuse Artificial Intelligence (AI) to generate fake stories or images.

To counter this, he urged citizens to rely on mainstream media outlets television, radio, newspapers and credible online platforms run by professional journalists for accurate updates on the electoral process.

Mr Soko further urged media houses to strengthen their internal verification processes by equipping reporters with fact-checking skills.

He also called on the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to strictly enforce cyber laws against individuals who deliberately spread false content during the campaign season.

MISA-TAN, he added, plans to collaborate with regulators and other stakeholders throughout the election period to conduct training for journalists on how to detect and respond to MDM.

Chief Executive Officer of Nukta Africa, Mr Nuzulack Dausen, also emphasised the central role of the media in curbing misinformation. He cautioned that when unverified content makes its way into radio, television, or newspapers, it risks misinforming voters and distorting electoral outcomes.

“Journalists must report facts rather than exaggerated opinions designed to deceive or create panic. At the same time, citizens must learn to pause and verify suspicious content before sharing it. Some malicious actors are already using templates of credible media outlets to disguise misinformation,” he said.

Mr Dausen, who is also a digital expert, said awareness must extend to news consumers, who are often the main targets of false information campaigns. He advised political parties and government institutions to respond quickly and transparently to clarify disinformation relating to their policies or projects.

He further recommended that media houses establish dedicated fact-checking desks to ensure that voters receive accurate information. “It is very important for every person to be capable of smelling false news,” he said.

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With Artificial Intelligence now playing a growing role in shaping political narratives, stakeholders note that this year’s General Election poses challenges never experienced in past polls.

They warn that unless the media steps up to lead the fight against misinformation, disinformation and malinformation, the credibility of the entire democratic process could be undermined.