New Issue

A summary of discussions with Allan Cheboi and Justine Wanda on Tek4Peace Africa YouTube Channel

In the age of digital revolution and fast-paced technological advancements, where social media platforms are the town squares of modern discourse, the role of emerging technologies like AI is more critical than ever. These tools have the potential to galvanize movements, influence public opinion, and drive societal change. However, with great power comes great responsibility. In our most recent conversation on Tek4Peace Africa’s YouTube platform, Allan Cheboi and Justine Wanda, both experts in the field dived into the transformative and sometimes perilous role of these technologies in Africa’s socio-political landscape.

The Double-Edged Sword of Digital Platforms

Digital platforms have become indispensable in advocacy and peace-building efforts across Africa. Allan Cheboi, a seasoned Data and Digital Technology Lead, pointed out, these platforms have democratized the process of mobilization. It is no longer just the politicians or elites who can rally the masses—now, anyone with a cause can do so from the comfort of their own home. This empowerment has been pivotal in recent protests and movements across the continent with Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda as key examples making it easier to convene large groups and amplify voices that might otherwise be silenced.

However, this empowerment is not without its challenges. Allan raised concerns about the rise of “paid pundits” and influence operations that exploit these very platforms. These operations often involve individuals or groups manipulating narratives by creating fake engagement, making it difficult for ordinary users to distinguish between genuine grassroots movements and orchestrated campaigns. The conversation shed light on how AI could exacerbate these issues by making it even easier to create convincing but false content tailored to specific audiences.

The Journey of Credible Content Creation

Amidst the noise and manipulation, credible content creators like Justine Wanda are fighting to keep the truth alive. Justine, a comedian, political satirist, and writer with over 16,000 followers online, shared her unique approach to blending satire with serious commentary on political and social issues. Her journey, filled with both triumphs and challenges, exemplifies the delicate balance creators must maintain between staying true to their mission and navigating the commercial realities of content creation.

Justine’s insights revealed the complexities of building an audience on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Despite the initial struggles of gaining traction, she emphasized the importance of discipline and authenticity. Creators like her are essential in countering the spread of disinformation, yet they face significant obstacles, from the pressure to monetize their content to the challenges of maintaining mental health in a demanding digital environment.

AI and the Future of Governance

This week’s guests didn’t shy away from discussing the broader implications of AI in governance and its potential to both aid and disrupt. Allan highlighted the growing concerns about foreign interference, where actors from outside Africa have been seen to use AI to manipulate local politics, further destabilizing already fragile democracies. This possibility underscores the need for vigilant regulation and the development of ethical guidelines for the use of AI in the public sphere.

Yet, amid these challenges, the two guests remained optimistic about the potential for technology to be a force for good. They called for increased support for creators committed to disseminating credible information and stressed the importance of making information accessible to all, especially those in rural areas who might not have easy access to the internet or formal education.

Be Part of the Change

This thought-provoking conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role that digital platforms and emerging technologies play in shaping the future of Africa. As we navigate this complex digital landscape, it’s crucial for all of us—whether as creators, consumers, or policymakers—to be informed, engaged, and proactive.

To fully grasp the insights shared by these experts and to explore how you can contribute to a more informed and peaceful society, I encourage you to watch the full conversation on YouTube. Let’s use these tools wisely to foster positive change, hold power to account, and build a more resilient future.

Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/-2qkWPEmnWk?si=ObzlMQfGapXi8wCg