Panos Institute Southern Africa Calls for Collaboration on International Fact-Checking Day
On International Fact-Checking Day, Panos Institute Southern Africa (PSAf) has reinforced its commitment to combating misinformation and upholding the integrity of the information ecosystem. Through its iVerify Zambia fact-checking and response mechanism, PSAf has urged stakeholders to unite in the fight against information pollution.
Observed annually on April 2, International Fact-Checking Day is a global initiative dedicated to promoting truth and accuracy in an era increasingly plagued by misinformation and disinformation. With false narratives rapidly spreading, often undermining democracy and social cohesion, PSAf has emphasized the urgent need for collective vigilance and action.
“Fact-checking is not just an option; it is an imperative for safeguarding public trust, accountability, and transparency,” said Vusumuzi Sifile, Executive Director of PSAf. “Unchecked misinformation has severe consequences, and combating it requires a concerted effort from governments, media, civil society, and all information stakeholders.”
PSAf’s years of experience in fact-checking and content verification have highlighted the importance of collaboration. The organization calls for strengthened partnerships between fact-checkers and key institutions, particularly in verifying electoral, financial, and health-related information. These efforts are crucial in fostering informed decision-making and maintaining institutional credibility.
As part of its commitment, PSAf is actively enhancing fact-checking and content verification capacities through support from the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) under the BUILD 2024 initiative. Additionally, as a member of the Africa Facts Network, hosted by Africa Check, PSAf regularly facilitates information literacy sessions for university students and other actors in the information space.
To further strengthen Zambia’s resilience against misinformation, PSAf is involved in establishing the Zambia National Action Coalition on Information Integrity. This multi-stakeholder platform will build on the organization’s membership in the Global Action Coalition on Information Integrity, aiming to create an environment where truth prevails over disinformation.
“The health of our information ecosystem depends on our collective responsibility. Every fact verified, every falsehood corrected, and every citizen empowered with media literacy skills strengthens our nation’s defenses against misinformation,” added Sifile.
PSAf remains steadfast in its mission and calls on all stakeholders to work together in mitigating misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and all forms of information pollution. Only through united efforts can Zambia foster an information ecosystem where accuracy, transparency, and credibility thrive.
