Meta recently announced its decision to discontinue fact-checking on its platforms, a move that has raised global concerns on the future digital platforms especially Facebook which has over 3 billion active users.
Fact-checking has long served as a vital line of defense against the rampant spread of misinformation and disinformation. With its removal, creates space for unchecked falsehoods to proliferate. This shift not only undermines the integrity of online spaces but also threatens democracy and social cohesion, particularly in Kenya’s context.
In Kenya, where internet penetration is steadily increasing, millions rely on platforms like Facebook and Instagram for news and information. With the absence of fact-checking, fake narratives could easily gain traction, leading to severe consequences. For example, during elections, disinformation campaigns could manipulate voter perceptions, polarize communities, or incite violence.
Additionally, health misinformation, such as false claims about vaccines or treatments, could endanger public health. Kenya has already experienced challenges with misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lack of regulatory mechanisms could worsen the situation.
Also, Kenya’s diverse audience includes urban, rural, educated, and less digitally literate populations. Many users may struggle to differentiate credible information from fake news. The lack of fact-checking tools leaves them particularly vulnerable to manipulation by bad actors.
For example, politically motivated disinformation could exploit tribal divisions or perpetuate harmful stereotypes, deepening existing social tensions. Similarly, false information about job opportunities, government policies, or economic opportunities could lead to exploitation and disillusionment.
While fact-checking is essential, it is not a standalone solution. The end of Meta’s fact-checking program underscores the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy programs in Kenya. Citizens must be equipped with the skills to critically evaluate online information, identify credible sources, and avoid spreading falsehoods.
Civil society organizations, educational institutions, and media houses can play a crucial role in promoting digital literacy. We have been running fact-checking workshops across the country, keep checking our socials to join one that might be happening near you or follow our blog to bridge the knowledge gap and empower yourself to navigate the digital space responsibly.
The removal of Meta’s global fact-checking does not mean that Kenya is helpless against the tide of misinformation. Local fact-checking organizations like PesaCheck and Africa Check have been instrumental in combating false narratives. Supporting these initiatives through funding, partnerships, and public awareness can help mitigate the fallout from Meta’s decision.
Furthermore, encouraging transparency and accountability among digital platforms operating in Kenya is essential. The government can introduce regulations requiring platforms to disclose algorithms, moderation policies, and steps taken to curb misinformation.
Meta’s decision to abandon fact-checking is undoubtedly a disadvantage for Kenyan’s online audience especially the marginalized groups. It leaves them more susceptible to the harms of unverified information, exacerbating challenges in governance, health, education, and social cohesion.