Bloggers Association Calls For Training, Support To Fight Misinformation In December Polls

Ahead of the elections on December 7, Andre Mustapha Nii Okai Inusah, often known as Attractive Mustapha, President of the Ghana Bloggers Association, has asked for immediate training and assistance for Ghanaian bloggers.

Attractive Mustapha stressed that funding blogger training might help curb the growing problem of disinformation, which threatens the legitimacy of the next elections, while speaking on Max FM's drive show with host Koda.

Although the internet and blogging have emerged as the "new gold" of the digital age, he said, the spread of false information, especially in the run-up to national elections, is a serious worry. "The high rate of misinformation is something that needs to be addressed, especially as we head towards the December elections," he said.

Attractive Mustapha emphasized that more work needs to be done, especially for bloggers, even if a number of groups are attempting to reduce false information in Ghana's media scene.

He drew attention to the fact that a large number of bloggers lack the professional training that mainstream journalists possess, which frequently results in a greater prevalence of false information in the blogging community.

"I’ve participated in many training sessions for mainstream journalists, and I’ve realized that bloggers are often excluded from these opportunities. Unfortunately, bloggers now have a broader reach than traditional media, which means they have a greater responsibility in ensuring the accuracy of information," he said.

He further stressed the importance of addressing misinformation to maintain peace, strengthen democracy, protect national unity, and enhance Ghana's international reputation before and after the elections. "If we want to enjoy peace and stability, strengthen our democracy, and protect national trust, misinformation must be tackled head-on," he added.

Attractive Mustapha also called for enhanced support for bloggers with technical resources, financial backing, and partnerships with media organisations to ensure that they are well-equipped to provide accurate and balanced information during the election period. "With the right support and training, bloggers can become key players in promoting credible information and safeguarding the integrity of the elections," he concluded.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/Peacefmonline.com

Editted: Djqwequ