As digital disinformation continues to threaten democratic processes across Africa, Research ICT Africa’s latest report, authored by Kwami Ahiabenu, explores how coordinated coalition efforts helped mitigate these risks during Ghana’s 2024 general elections. The study, part of a broader project in partnership with International Media Support and Penplusbytes, maps the disinformation landscape across the electoral cycle and analyses how multistakeholder coalitions—including media, civil society, and fact-checkers—responded to emerging threats.
The report finds that although disinformation remained a persistent challenge, it did not significantly undermine the election outcome, thanks in part to a robust media landscape, active civil society, and effective stakeholder collaboration. Notably, the report highlights the success of a modified risk assessment tool used to identify and counter disinformation threats such as manipulated media, online intimidation, and attacks on the Electoral Commission’s credibility. It also examines the dual role of AI in both spreading and combatting disinformation, underscoring the urgency of developing context-specific technological and regulatory responses.
To enhance future interventions, the report recommends building stakeholder capacity, fostering innovation in fact-checking, and strengthening partnerships with platforms. By deepening cross-sectoral collaboration and promoting access to accurate electoral information, Ghana—and other African democracies—can improve their resilience to digital threats and safeguard electoral integrity.
