A conference on the impact of fake news and its impact on society is underway at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
The conference seeks to identify, dissect and stop the spread of fake news through verification.
Opening the three-day conference, Board Chairperson for Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), Stanley Khaila, said the media has the power to make or break. He cited cases of impersonation that some misguided people are using to mislead unsuspecting citizenry.
“Those in the act of misinformation do so to mislead intentionally and cause public harm or for profit. Fake news is breaking families, and causing uncertainty across the globe. The media in Malawi should differentiate between real and fake news. Journalists must verify every piece of information for the good of the nation,” said Khaila.
In his remarks, Director General for MACRA, Daud Suleman said the media play a crucial role in shaping the national narrative as such it is imperative for members of the press to be at the forefront in stopping fake news.
“The internet never forgets as such let us exercise caution before we press the button to push content on the internet. Together we have a responsibility to protect the next generation from the current fourth industrial revolution of new media. If the children grow up reading fake content, what will become of the next generation?
“I believe this three-day workshop will create a good platform where issues of fighting and stopping fake news can be discussed at length,” said Suleman.
The conference has drawn participants from various media houses across the country including online publications. MACRA has roped in the services of seasoned media gurus and academicians including Sydney Kankuzi and Jolly Ntaba.
The facilitators have urged journalists to pursue virtue, morality and national good.
The conference is being held under the theme: ‘Fake news, impact and implications.’
