Key Findings from new MEDIA Project Report
As digital disinformation continues to shape electoral processes worldwide, a new report by the MEDIA Project, “Tackling Disinformation, Information Manipulation, and Interference in Four African Elections,” provides a comprehensive analysis of electoral disinformation trends in Africa. This report focuses on elections held between 2022 and 2024 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa, highlighting key patterns, challenges, and strategies for combating disinformation.
The report examines how political actors and misinformation networks leverage digital platforms to influence public perception, undermine trust in electoral institutions, and manipulate election outcomes. It identifies recurring themes in electoral disinformation, including false claims about voter registration systems, election rigging, and external interference, all aimed at delegitimising electoral processes. The report also highlights the weaponisation of identity-based narratives, where ethnic and gendered disinformation is used to polarise communities and discredit candidates, particularly women and marginalised groups. Another significant issue explored in the report is the use of coordinated disinformation campaigns, where social media influencers, bots, and “digital militias” amplify false information and fuel political divisions.
Each country in the study presents unique insights into how disinformation has been deployed. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the 2023 general election saw disinformation exploit regional tensions and economic struggles, deepening political divides. Kenya’s 2022 elections witnessed intense social media-driven misinformation, often targeting ethnic and gender identities. Senegal’s 2024 presidential race was marked by a surge in false narratives aimed at inflaming political rivalries and social divisions. In South Africa, the 2024 elections experienced coordinated online campaigns designed to erode public trust in electoral institutions. Despite these challenges, the report also highlights the resilience of counter-disinformation efforts, including fact-checking coalitions, media literacy initiatives, and rapid-response mechanisms developed to combat the spread of false narratives.
Lessons for the Future
The report outlines key lessons for tackling electoral disinformation. Strong coalitions among fact-checkers, media organisations, civil society groups, and international partners are essential for enhancing responses to disinformation. Ongoing investment in counter-disinformation initiatives should extend beyond election periods to build sustained resilience. Social media plays a dual role in both spreading and countering disinformation, offering opportunities for fact-checking interventions and the promotion of counter-narratives. Digital literacy remains a crucial tool in addressing misinformation, particularly among younger demographics, who are often the most active consumers and potential amplifiers of disinformation.
As electoral disinformation continues to evolve, the MEDiA Project urges stakeholders—including governments, civil society, and technology platforms—to implement evidence-based interventions that strengthen electoral transparency and public trust. The findings and recommendations of the report offer valuable insights into how to address the growing challenge of electoral disinformation and safeguard democratic processes.
To explore the findings, download the executive summary.
