CDD West Africa, NDI collaborate to combat disinformation, AI’s impact on social media

By Oluwatope Lawanson

Post By Supreme International Magazine

Lagos, July 5, 2024 — The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD West Africa) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI), in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, to host second West Africa Conference on countering Information manipulation.

Dr Dauda Garuba, Director CDD West Africa made this known in a statement on Thursday in Lagos.

According to him, the conference which aims to bring together stakeholders from civil society, media, and state institutions will hold from July 9 to 11 in Lagos.

Garuba said it would address the spread of disinformation, hate speech, and other forms of information manipulation.

“It aim to confront the escalating threats of disinformation and hate speech across the region, exacerbated by recent electoral processes and the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

“The event will feature prominent speakers and panelists who will delve into critical topics including AI’s dual role in both combatting and propagating disinformation.

Also, they will delve into strategies used in recent elections to manipulate information, and the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, particularly women.

“Key stakeholders from civil society, media, and government institutions will gather to exchange insights, share strategies, and develop collaborative approaches to combat misinformation,” he said.

Garuba emphasized the conference’s importance in addressing the erosion of trust in democratic processes caused by disinformation campaigns.

He said that the conference will explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in combating and creating disinformation.

Garuba added that it will target marginalized communities, and tools for addressing these challenges.

“Keynote speakers and panelists will share case studies and best practices, and participants will engage in interactive discussions and networking sessions.

“The outcomes of this conference are expected to catalyze effective strategies and synergies to safeguard the information landscape in West Africa,” he said

The CDD executive director also disclosed that the conference will adopt a hybrid format, allowing for both physical and online participation.

He said: “the conference aims to develop collaborative strategies to safeguard the information space in the West Africa sub-region and promote democratic institutions.

According to him, it will ensure a broad spectrum of voices which can contribute to discussions on monitoring and countering harmful content online.

He called on Interested participants to register to attend and engage in workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at developing actionable recommendations to mitigate the impact of disinformation.

“For further information and registration details, visit CDD West Africa or NDI.”