Campaign spurs critical thinking and digital literacy in Gisagara

By The Inspirer.

Amid the surge of digital connectivity in Rwanda, Gisagara District has become the latest hub for promoting critical thinking and digital responsibility.

A dynamic mass campaign, organized by the Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development (GLIHD) with support from the European Union (EU), drew local leaders, educators, and digital content creators together on Friday to tackle issues of misinformation and unethical media practices.

This initiative, part of a three-year project dubbed “Protecting and Promoting Responsible Freedom of Expression, Enhancing Access to Information, and Improving Digital Media Literacy in Rwanda” (PPRFR), known locally as Ijwi Riranguruye ry’Itangazamakuru (IRI), seeks to empower citizens to critically engage with the digital content they consume.

With over 3.5 million Rwandans actively using the internet, the risks posed by misinformation and unverified content loom large.

The Gisagara campaign sought to address these issues through interactive sessions, including theatrical performances that vividly depicted the dangers of fake news and the importance of verifying information before sharing it.

GLIHD’s Deputy Executive Director, Umulisa Husna Vestine, highlighted the campaign’s broader objective of fostering informed and responsible digital engagement.

“We aim to create a critical mass of citizens who can discern the quality of digital content and contribute to a healthy digital environment,” she said.

Participants engaged in discussions on media ethics, identifying reliable sources, and understanding Rwanda’s access to public information law. Practical tips on combatting misinformation resonated with attendees, with many appreciating the relevance of the initiative in today’s digital-first landscape.

“I’ve learned how to verify information before sharing it and the importance of seeking credible sources,” said one community member.

A nationwide drive for digital literacy

One of ten events planned under the PPRFR project, the Gisagara campaign adds momentum to the effort to combat misinformation and promote ethical behavior in digital spaces.

Encouraging collaboration among citizens, content creators, and local authorities, the organizers stressed the need to establish a culture of responsible online engagement. With Rwanda’s digital transformation accelerating, such initiatives provide communities with the skills needed to navigate the digital world effectively.

Digital literacy has become a cornerstone of community development in Gisagara District. Various initiatives have been introduced to equip citizens with the knowledge and tools required to engage responsibly in the digital era.

Speaking at the event, Theogene Nsengimana, Executive Secretary of Ndora Sector in Gisagara District, emphasized the importance of informed digital engagement.

“This campaign is timely as it equips our citizens with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital space responsibly, ensuring they access accurate and credible information,” he said.

The campaign also seeks to empower citizens with practical skills to use technology for education, business, and social development. Local leaders, in partnership with civil society organizations, continue to advocate for responsible internet use, focusing on combating misinformation and promoting digital inclusion.

The campaign in Gisagara demonstrates how grassroots efforts can ripple outward, influencing the creation of a national standard for digital literacy and responsible media consumption.

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