AI, disinformation put media at centre of Africa’s electoral preparedness

The African Union is seeking stronger media literacy, independent journalism and safeguards against digital disinformation as African countries prepare for the 2026–2027 electoral cycle.

The measures were among the priorities discussed at the Second Roundtable on Democracy, Media and Socialisation in Africa, held in Addis Ababa, amid concerns about the influence of artificial intelligence and digital platforms on democratic participation.

The meeting, convened by the African Union Commission’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security, brought together media practitioners, election management bodies, academics, civil society organisations, youth and women’s networks and international partners.

Under the theme “From Dialogue to Action: Advancing Democratic Resilience through Media, Socialisation and Inclusion in Africa,” participants explored how information systems and public engagement can support credible elections and strengthen democratic institutions.

AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Ambassador Bankole Adeoye said democratic values must be embedded in communities, schools, media spaces and public institutions.

He called for practical proposals to improve access to credible information, strengthen civic and voter education and expand citizen participation in governance.

Discussions examined the opportunities and risks associated with generative artificial intelligence and digital platforms, including misinformation, disinformation and hate speech. Participants also considered digital sovereignty and the growing need for citizens to assess information critically.

Proposed responses included media and digital literacy programmes, fact-checking initiatives, support for independent journalism and measures to build public trust in reliable information.

The roundtable also addressed the working environment for journalists, including their safety and labour rights, as well as the role of investigative and community journalism in reaching citizens beyond major urban centres.

Participants further highlighted the need to strengthen youth civic engagement, increase women’s leadership and ensure that persons with disabilities are included in democratic processes.

The meeting builds on the first roundtable, held in Nairobi in May 2025, which recommended stronger protection for journalists, continent-wide media and digital literacy initiatives, democracy education and greater support for investigative and community journalism.

Participants in Addis Ababa reviewed progress on those recommendations and identified priorities for implementation ahead of the next roundtable in 2027.

The deliberations are expected to inform an Action Roadmap setting out priority interventions, institutional responsibilities and monitoring and reporting arrangements.

Adeoye challenged participants to move beyond discussion and deliver measurable results, saying the value of the meeting would ultimately be judged by its impact on the democratic experiences of African citizens.

The roundtable was supported by International IDEA with funding from the European Union.