Musanze Hosts Campaign on Digital Literacy and Critical Thinking

By The Inspirer.

Musanze, Rwanda – November 29, 2024, A mass campaign aimed at promoting critical thinking, access to public information, and responsible consumption of digital media was held today in Musanze District.

The event, organized by the Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development (GLIHD) with funding from the European Union (EU), brought together community members, local leaders, educators, and digital content creators.

The campaign is part of a three-year project titled “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).

Promoting Informed Digital Engagement

The event highlighted the increasing reliance on digital platforms in Rwanda, with over 3.5 million internet users actively engaging online. However, many lack the skills to critically evaluate the content they consume, making them susceptible to misinformation, disinformation, and unethical practices by some content creators.

Participants were educated on combating fake news and improving digital literacy through interactive sessions, including a theatre performance illustrating the dangers of misinformation and the importance of fact-checking.

Speaking at the event, Ag. Executive Secretary of Kinigi Sector emphasized the significance 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.

Fostering Digital Responsibility

John Scarius, GLIHD’s Director of Programs noted the campaign’s broader objective to empower Rwandans to make informed decisions and participate in democratic processes.

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

Key activities included discussions on media ethics, identifying credible sources, and understanding Rwanda’s access to public information law. The event also provided practical tips for identifying and addressing misinformation, which is often spread by unregulated content creators prioritizing clicks over credibility.

The Musanze campaign is one of 10 similar events planned across the country. Organizers hope these efforts will reduce the spread of false information and promote a culture of digital responsibility.

Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative, with many noting its relevance in today’s digital age. “I’ve learned how to verify information before sharing it and the importance of seeking credible sources,” said a community member who attended the event.

The campaign concluded with calls for continued collaboration between citizens, content creators, and local authorities to ensure responsible and ethical use of digital platforms.

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