African Union and UNESCO launch framework to strengthen information integrity
The framework aims to combat misinformation and disinformation, ensuring reliable and trustworthy media environments.
The African Union and UNESCO issued a press release to make the announcement. This partnership aligns with AU's 2063 Agenda's goal of sustainable development through informed citizenry.
Rita Bissoonauth, Director of the UNESCO Liaison Office to the African Union and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and Representative to Ethiopia, described the framework as an important milestone for promoting informed civic engagement and combating disinformation across Africa.
The framework includes measures to enhance digital literacy, improve media professionalism, and support fact-checking organisations continent-wide.
The framework encourages AU member states to develop national strategies and multi-stakeholder platforms to monitor misinformation trends and promote media accountability.
In adddition, UNESCO will provide technical assistance, training journalists and policymakers on best practices against disinformation.
Earlier efforts, including the Continental AI Strategy, guide this initiative to ensure the responsible use of information and technology.
The framework emphasises cooperation among governments, civil society, and the private sector, aiming for inclusive information governance.
The framework aims to support independent media and fact-checking bodies through capacity building and strategic guidance, recognising their vital role in maintaining information integrity.
AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Bankole Adeoye, pointed out that there must be coordinated action to counter harmful narratives.
The UNESCO Liaison Office to the African Union in Addis Ababa will coordinate the initiative and its implementation in collaboration with the AU.
Stakeholders are currently consulting on the framework's first draft during a six-month process before approving it in November 2025.
Furthermore, the AU and UNESCO urge stakeholders to actively participate in creating a transparent, informed Africa.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
14 minutes ago
- IOL News
POLL: Should Minister Gayton McKenzie resign over the K-word controversy?
Amid growing calls for Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to resign from his Cabinet position after a series of racist tweets where he used the k-word in the past, the Patriotic Alliance leader has said he will not resign. The likes of celebrated media personality Sizwe Dhlomo and the Economic Freedom Fighters, are among those who have called for McKenzie to step down over the controversy wherein a series of k-word calling tweets, most at least 10 years old, were uncovered. McKenzie had vocally came out in defence of the Coloured community when a group of young young Black African podcasters from the Open Chats Podcast made vile, regressive and racist comments about the Coloured community recently. They have since apologized, but they too are now subject of a formal complaint to the Human Rights Commission, while McKenzie's political party, the Patriotic Alliance, formally opened criminal cases with the SA Police Services through its Joburg councillor Liam Jacobs. McKenzie has been vocal in speaking out against the racist comments made by the podcasters, saying they needed to be taught a lesson, but in so doing, he hosted a Facebook Live wherein he repeatedly made use of the K-word. This led some social media users to turn the attention on the minister, unveiling a series of equally denegrating and racist comments from McKenzie, who at the time was not a politician, but an ordinary South African. In an attempt to address the K-word comments, the minister hosted another Facebook Live session speaking to his Patriotic Alliance constituency on Sunday evening. He apologized for being a troll and stupid, cringed at the remarks he had made and apologized on that aspect, however, he vehemently denied he was a racist, saying his mother was Black African and he also had children with a Black African woman. McKenzie firmly denied ever calling anyone by the K-word slur and dared any victim to come forward, labeling the allegations a politically driven 'campaign' orchestrated by the EFF and social media influencers. He also accused the ActionSA of using the saga to get its foot in the Government of National Unity at the expense of the PA. McKenzie challenged critics to produce concrete proof, arguing that without a specific victim or direct quote, claims of racism against him were baseless. McKenzie also reiterated his lifelong fight for equal treatment of Black African and Coloured South Africans, calling any suggestion to the contrary 'hilarious.'
The Star
2 hours ago
- The Star
Women leading the charge: transforming South Africa's food and hospitality sector
IOL Reporter | Published 1 week ago Ahead of National Women's Day on August 9, the contribution of South African women in the food and hospitality sector continues to gain recognition for its transformative effects. In an exclusive interview, Renee Hill, Managing Director of Capsicum Culinary Studio (CCS), sheds light on the resilience and determination of women in leadership roles within this vibrant industry. Hill emphasises that South Africa's food and hospitality sector is not only crucial for employment and tourism but has also seen women play an increasingly significant role in driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences. "Their unwavering determination to succeed has allowed them to navigate systemic challenges, championing meaningful change while nurturing mentorship, advocating for work-life balance, and promoting diversity and inclusion," Hill notes. Leadership roles in this sector have historically been male-dominated, but South African women are now shattering those glass ceilings. Hill highlights how women have shown remarkable resilience in the face of socio-economic barriers, such as gender bias and wage disparities. "Through innovative thinking and community-driven leadership models, they've proven that they can thrive in this competitive climate," she claims. Citing numerous women-owned enterprises—ranging from restaurants and boutique hotels to guesthouses and tourism ventures—Hill points to these as symbols of empowerment. "Women often exhibit a unique management style that emphasises empathy, collaboration, and community engagement,' she explains. 'These attributes enable them to build strong teams and cultivate customer loyalty.' Furthermore, mentorship is emerging as a vital tool for sustaining and fostering female leadership in this sector. Experienced women in leadership roles serve as role models for younger professionals, offering vital support and practical insights that catalyse career growth. 'Structured mentorship programmes and informal networks have become essential in building confidence among women aspiring to ascend the leadership ladder. Women helping women—through formal training or grassroots support—has significantly impacted representation and retention in the industry,' Hill reveals. Yet, challenges remain. Achieving a work-life balance is one of the most pressing issues for women in food and hospitality, given the industry's notorious long hours and high-pressure environments. "Balancing leadership roles with personal and family life requires both institutional support and personal resilience,' Hill asserts. While some progressive employers are beginning to endorse flexible work arrangements, female leaders are actively redefining work culture by prioritising mental health and inclusivity. 'By fostering a culture that values employee well-being, they are not just elevating their own quality of life but also creating healthier work environments for everyone," she adds. Diversity and inclusion also play a critical role in reshaping the industry. Hill notes that the inclusion of women from diverse backgrounds enriches the sector with varied perspectives and cultural awareness, thus enhancing customer experience. 'Women leaders are championing inclusive hiring practices and creating welcoming spaces that address the nuances of South Africa's complex socio-economic landscape,' she explains. Empowering women from different backgrounds not only furthers social justice but also fosters innovation within the sector. 'The impact of women in South Africa's hospitality arena cannot be overstated,' says Hill. 'Their tenacity and determination have not only broken barriers but have also redefined what success looks like in a traditionally male-dominated field. By centering mentorship, work-life balance, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, women are shaping the future of South Africa's hospitality industry.' IOL
Eyewitness News
3 hours ago
- Eyewitness News
Judges Matter: SA's judiciary must double down on abuse of power
JOHANNESBURG - Judiciary monitoring group Judges Matter said it's high time the country's judiciary doubles down on its zero tolerance for abuse of power. This comes after Chief Justice Mandisa Maya announced a landmark sexual harassment policy for the South African judiciary on Women's Day at the weekend. The 25-page document is part of efforts to address longstanding claims of sexual harassment in the legal fraternity. ALSO READ: Judge Selby Mbenenge appearing before tribunal is positive - Judges Matter This includes the most recent troubling case against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge, who is accused of making unwanted sexual advances towards High Court Secretary Andiswa Mengo between 2021 and 2022. The newly introduced policy outlines clear procedures for addressing complaints of sexual misconduct in the judiciary and disciplinary measures against offenders. Co-ordinator at Judges Matter, Alison Tilley, weighs in on the move. 'The idea is to establish a gender desk at the office of the Chief Justice, and people would be able to go and complain there, but in different ways, so you don't have to do a full-on Judicial Service Commission complaint like Ms Mengo had to do. You can also raise a concern in confidence and ask for mediation.' Tilley said the policy also seeks to address the skewered power dynamics that make it hard for complainants to come forward. 'It does do that, and then it also creates a reporting mechanism so that you don't have to directly confront your boss or your boss' boss, but you can then go to the gender desk and report there and talk through your options.'
