By Damilola Abiola
Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has applauded the adoption of a new Policy Framework on Information Integrity in West Africa and the Sahel, describing it as a timely response to the growing spread of disinformation, misinformation, and harmful online content in the region.
The 19-page framework was adopted on September 5, 2025, at the close of a three-day regional conference convened by UNESCO and the Government of Cape Verde in Praia, Cape Verde’s capital. The conference, held from September 3 to 5, brought together governments, civil society groups, and regional institutions to craft solutions to the threats undermining information integrity across West Africa and the Sahel.
According to the outcome document, the framework seeks to foster public trust in the information ecosystem while strengthening digital platform governance and safeguarding human rights. It was developed in response to the rise of disinformation, hate speech, and the misuse of emerging technologies to manipulate public opinion and cause harm.
In a statement, MRA’s Programme Officer, Ms. Adesewa Akintokun, commended UNESCO and participating stakeholders for their collaborative efforts.
“At a time when the spread of false and misleading information undermines democracy, fuels conflict, and erodes public trust in institutions, this initiative provides an important blueprint for fostering a healthier and more resilient information environment,” she said.
Ms. Akintokun noted that MRA particularly welcomes the framework’s emphasis on protecting fundamental rights.
“This balanced approach is critical to ensuring that efforts to combat harmful content do not become a pretext for censorship or suppression of legitimate expression,” she stressed.
She also described the simultaneous adoption of the “Praia Action Plan for Information Integrity in West Africa and the Sahel” and the “Guide for Regulators to Implement the Information Integrity Model Policy Framework” as significant milestones. However, she emphasized that the real test would lie in effective implementation.
“We urge all stakeholders to demonstrate the political will, commitment, and collaboration necessary to translate this important document into concrete actions that will advance information integrity and democratic resilience in the region,” she added.
Reaffirming MRA’s commitment, Ms. Akintokun said the organization looks forward to working with governments, civil society, media institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure the framework delivers meaningful impact.
“As an organization committed to advancing media freedom, access to information, and the digital rights of citizens, MRA will continue to advocate for policies and practices that safeguard journalists, strengthen media institutions, and empower citizens to engage meaningfully in democratic governance,” she concluded.