Discovery Foundation – Penplusbytes launches Ghana Anti-Disinformation Coalition

Discovery Foundation and Penplusbytes, a youth-focused seminar on misinformation and online safety, took center stage in Accra, Ghana-India Kofi Annan ICT center (GI-KACE) today, alongside the official launch of the Ghana Anti-Disinformation Coalition project, a new initiative aimed at combating the spread of false information in the country and the world at large.

The event, held under the sponsorship of the Norwegian Embassy in collaboration with Discovery Foundation and Penplusbytes, brought together Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Dr. Charity Binka, Mercy Catherin Adjabeng, students, journalists, civil society groups, and digital media experts to discuss the growing threat of misinformation, particularly among young people and student as large.

In a keynote address, a representative from the Norwegian Embassy that the rapid growth of social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp has made it easier for false information to spread quickly, often without verification. She noted that while digital platforms have enhanced communication, they have also created challenges for truth and accountability. “Misinformation and disinformation are nothing new but the rate at which its spread fast”. She added again that information are to strengthen and built our society but not to threaten them.

“The youth are the most active users of digital platforms, and therefore must be equipped with the skills to identify, question, and verify information before sharing,” she said.

The seminar featured interactive sessions on fact-checking, identifying fake news, and protecting personal data online. Experts demonstrated practical tools and techniques to help participants distinguish credible sources from misleading content.
The launch of the Ghana Anti-Disinformation Coalition marks a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to promote media literacy and safeguard democratic processes. The coalition is expected to work closely with media organizations, educational institutions, and technology partners to run public awareness campaigns and training programs nationwide.

Speaking at the launch, Mercy Catherine Adjabeng explained that the initiative would focus on empowering citizens with critical thinking skills and fostering collaboration among participants to counter disinformation effectively.

Participants expressed confidence about the initiative, noting that misinformation has had serious implications for public, individuals, elections, and social cohesion in recent years.

The event concluded with a call to action for young people to become “digital ambassadors of truth,” using their online presence responsibly to promote accurate and reliable information.

The seminar and project launch reflect Ghana’s growing commitment to tackling misinformation and ensuring a safer digital environment for all citizens. “Before you share Pulse, before you believe check and before you stay silence speak”