Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has raised concerns about the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation as Ghana approaches its December elections.
He urged all stakeholders, including the military and security agencies, to remain vigilant against misleading information that could provoke unnecessary actions.
Dr Bawumia gave this caution during the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College’s graduation ceremony in Accra.
He commended the Armed Forces for their role in maintaining Ghana’s democracy and stressed the need to protect this reputation.
Dr Bawumia pointed out that misinformation campaigns are increasingly targeting both the public and the military, posing risks to national and regional stability.
He highlighted the evolving nature of warfare, particularly in West Africa, noting that modern threats have shifted from traditional methods to more complex tactics, including the use of drones and disinformation.
The Vice President praised the college for updating its curriculum to address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of equipping the military with the necessary knowledge to counter these threats.
He also urged the graduates, who came from 17 countries, to use their training to foster cooperation and enhance security across Africa.
Dr Bawumia encouraged them to apply the insights gained during their course to make meaningful contributions in their respective roles.
The Vice President’s advice comes barely a month after The Ghana Report organised The Ghana Report Summit to tackle misinformation and disinformation.
The Ghana Report Summit brought together top-notch experts, including policymakers, technologists, civil society organizations, thought leaders, and media professionals, to delve into comprehensive strategies to combat the menacing problems with tentacles of propaganda, deepfake, and conspiracy theories in election periods.
H.E. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was the special guest at The Ghana Report Summit, hosted by His Royal Majesty Ga Mantse Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II.