International multimedia journalist Alhassan Bala has launched a new fact-checking platform called “Alkalanci” (The Arbiter), designed to combat misinformation and disinformation in the Hausa language.
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The platform, which focuses on fact-checking health, politics, and other topics, also verifies the authenticity of pictures and videos to prevent the spread of misleading information. It aims to educate Hausa speakers in Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and beyond about false claims and manipulated media.
Speaking about the platform’s significance, Bala said, “We look at the digital space and realize how misinformation and disinformation are gaining ground among Hausa digital platform users. There are also many myths and false claims on health matters that a number of people believe with utmost belief. This is why it is important for us to provide a platform that will enlighten the Hausa readers.”
He added that Alkalanci will provide media literacy to help users recognize and protect themselves from false information, particularly in an era where “deep fake” pictures and videos are created using advanced tools like Photoshop and AI.
Bala, who has decades of journalism experience, currently serves as a stringer for Voice of America’s (VOA) Hausa and English services.
