Title: Madagascar launches Vaovao Check, the first independent platform to fight disinformation
Introduction:
In a country where misinformation is rife, a consortium of journalists in Madagascar recently launched Vaovao Check, the first independent fact-checking platform. This initiative, which aims to combat the dissemination of manipulated information and speech inciting hatred, is the result of a collaboration between Actions Médias Francophones, Transparency International and the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. A few days before the official launch of the presidential election campaign, this initiative takes on its full meaning to raise awareness among the population about the issues of mass disinformation.
The observation of disinformation in Madagascar:
Madagascar faces disinformation on a daily basis, amplified by the massive use of social networks, particularly Facebook, to which a large part of the population has almost free access. Journalists find themselves inundated with this misinformation, which poses a real problem for verifying information. It is in this context that the idea of creating an independent fact-checking platform emerged.
An independent and impartial platform:
The particularity of Madagascar’s media landscape lies in the political, economic and commercial involvement of press owners. This situation often limits the freedom of journalists to verify certain facts. This is why the creation of an independent and impartial platform, such as Vaovao Check, is essential to restore trust in information. With more than twenty-five journalists specifically trained for this task, the platform is committed to producing articles, podcasts and videos that will sift through existing information, whether from traditional media or citizens.
A long-term commitment:
Launched at a pivotal moment in the country’s history, Vaovao Check aims to last beyond the presidential elections. Its objective is to raise awareness among the population about the issues of mass disinformation and to guarantee access to truthful information. By analyzing the veracity of information and providing supporting evidence, the platform aims to be a reliable reference point for Malagasy citizens.
Conclusion:
Vaovao Check represents an important step in the fight against disinformation in Madagascar. By providing an independent and impartial platform for fact-checking, this consortium of journalists seeks to restore trust in information and raise awareness of the dangers of mass disinformation. Hopefully this initiative will serve as a model for other countries facing the same issues and will help promote responsible and transparent journalism.