Since 2017 the Anglophone conflict and the 2018 post-election crisis crystallize the public debate and increased the consumption and spread of ‘fake news’ online and in traditional media. Despite the efforts of various actors, the situation is taking alarming proportions in the context of tribalist attacks and their offshoots. Yet fact-checking is not new in the newsroom. In recent years, there has been an increase in the verification of online information and public claims due to the proliferation of fake news on social media. This desire to combat the proliferation of ‘fake’ news online is underreported in online and offline media.
The Africa Fact-checking Fellowship – #AFFCameroon is designed to track and map viral trends on social media related to current challenges of ‘fake news’ in Cameroon. Through its different cohorts, #AFFCameroon aims to enhance the skills of experienced professionals to effectively contribute to peace-building and social cohesion by combating disinformation and hate speech. It intends to promote fact-checking, data journalism and digital rights towards journalists, bloggers and content creators in Africa. The program is based on a blended learning model using webinars, practical lessons, peer-to-peer learning and on-the-ground practical work. Fellows will have access to a rich set of online tools and resources as well as a network of experts and professionals from around the world.
ELIGIBILITY
- Journalists can apply.
- Content creators can apply.
- Digital rights activists
- Bloggers
- Opinion and community leaders
- Between 20 to 40 years of age.
- Must reside in Cameroon.
- Be fully available, understand English and French, computer literate, and active on social media.
DEADLINE: April 20, 2023
To apply and for more information, visit here
