South Sudan launched a three-day national workshop on Tuesday, October 13, to establish a multi-agency platform tackling hate speech and disinformation as part of efforts to prevent conflict and strengthen social cohesion.
Convened by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), alongside the African Union Commission and UN agencies, the workshop brings together government institutions, civil society, media organisations and other stakeholders.
IGAD’s head of mission in South Sudan, Victoria Anib, said the platform would improve cooperation, information-sharing and coordinated responses to emerging threats as the country advances its peace process, prepares for elections and drafts a constitution.
Beleteze Foretia, representing the UN Office of the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, warned that harmful narratives could weaken trust between communities and fuel political instability.
She stressed that efforts to counter disinformation must protect freedom of expression, independent journalism and legitimate political participation. Participants will define institutional responsibilities and strengthen links between early-warning systems and preventive action.