By Fatou Dahaba
Gambia Participate, in collaboration with the US Embassy in Banjul, hosted a day-long capacity-building workshop for social media influencers at Bakadaji Hotel to equip them with tools to counter false propaganda and promote accurate information dissemination. The initiative, a response to the growing challenge of disinformation in Gambia’s evolving democratic landscape, underscores influencers’ critical role in shaping public discourse.
The training focused on building a society resilient to misinformation by enhancing media literacy, fact-checking skills, and strategies to resist disinformation campaigns. Participants, drawn from Gambia’s vibrant social media community, were provided with practical tools to detect narrative manipulation, foster collaboration, and ensure responsible content creation. The program emphasized the importance of influencers as key stakeholders in combating false narratives, particularly in a nation navigating democratic transitions and governance reforms.
Marr Nyang, Executive Director of Gambia Participate, highlighted the unique influence of social media personalities, often overlooked by civil society for capacity-building efforts. “They have significant sway over their communities and followers,” Nyang said. “Our goal is to expand their understanding of legal issues surrounding their content, ensuring they avoid legal conflicts while disseminating accurate information.” He stressed that influencers with large followings are responsible for sharing verified information, as unverified content can quickly be mistaken for truth, potentially destabilizing society.
Nyang urged participants to use their platforms to counter false propaganda effectively. “Their work can either make or break society,” he noted. “We want them to filter what they share carefully, ensuring the information is accurate to maintain public trust and avoid falling for political propaganda.”
The workshop is pivotal for Gambia, where high-quality information is essential for sustaining public trust amid ongoing democratic reforms. Empowering influencers aims to strengthen the media ecosystem and curb the spread of fake news and disinformation.
Yusupha Jatta, a participant known as 360 Plus, praised the organizers for the timely training. “As a key stakeholder in the media, this workshop is invaluable,” Jatta said. “The skills I’ve gained will improve my work, allowing me to inform my audience with accurate and responsible content.” He expressed confidence that the training would enhance his ability to tackle false narratives on his platform, contributing to a more informed public.
The event reflects a broader effort to fortify Gambia’s media landscape against the dangers of misinformation. Gambia Participate and the US Embassy aim to create a ripple effect by engaging influencers and encouraging responsible content that supports democratic values and governance reforms. As the country continues its democratic journey, such initiatives are vital for fostering a media environment that prioritizes truth and accountability.
The training marks a significant step toward building a resilient society. Influencers are now better equipped to serve as gatekeepers of accurate information, helping to cement public trust and counter divisive propaganda in Gambia’s dynamic digital age.
