** Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo: Analysis of a fake news about Pope Leo XIV and President Ibrahim Traoré **
On May 21, 2025, a rumor spread on social networks concerning an alleged communication between Pope Leo XIV and the Burkinabè president, Ebrahim Traoré. This information, relayed by an account on X (formerly Twitter), aroused the attention of many Internet users. However, the Vatican quickly denied this news, qualifying video as the fruit of manipulation by artificial intelligence. This phenomenon raises essential questions about the veracity of information and individual responsibility in their dissemination.
** Origin of the false news **
The initial publication comes from an anonymous account named Black Jesus, who shared a video containing a speech attributed to Pope Leo XIV. In less time than it takes to say, this video has reached several thousand views, testifying to the impact that social networks can have on the circulation of information. This figure highlights the importance of vigilance in the sharing of online content, where the speed of propagation can often surpass the verification of the facts.
** Vatican’s response **
The Vatican reacted promptly, saying that no Official Olmadığı communication between the Pope and President Traoré. Through a press release, the press service said that the discourse released online was only a creation generated by an artificial intelligence. This denial highlights the need to be careful in the face of content which, although apparently credible, can actually be designed for the purpose of disinformation.
** Political and religious context **
The manipulation of information through false news may have serious repercussions on the social and political climate, especially in West Africa, where tensions can already be exacerbated. In a context where confidence in religious and political institutions can be fragile, this kind of fake news has the potential to further destabilize relations between populations and authorities. Indeed, the use of important figures such as the Pope in false narrations can undermine the credibility of institutions already under pressure.
** A recommendation for vigilance and education **
Faced with the speed with which such information can spread, it becomes imperative to encourage a culture of verification of the facts, in particular through media education. Today’s digital tools offer great power, but this power must be accompanied by a shared responsibility between users. Individuals, faced with an overabundance of information, have a role to play in discernment and turn to reliable sources before drawing conclusions or sharing content.
Social networks, by facilitating exchange and debate, should rather become spaces favorable to enlightened exchanges rather than the spread of false information. It is crucial that users take the time to learn from verified sources before disseminating content, especially when it supports stories that can cause tensions.
**Conclusion**
Recent events around the video allegedly published by Pope Leo XIV illustrate the fragility of our modern media environment. While technologies are advancing, the challenge lies in our ability to sail safely in this complex landscape. Favor critical thinking, promote access to reliable facts and maintain a dialogue based on respect and openness are keys to fighting disinformation and building bridges within our societies.
It appears that vigilance, associated with a reinforced media education, could be a lever to appease cleavages and encourage constructive discussions around political and religious issues, both in Africa and elsewhere in the world.