The Information Services Department (SD) in partnership with Penplusbytes, a Non-Governmental Organisation, has launched a campaign with the theme, “MIL Caravan of Hope” to raise awareness and educate rural communities against the dissemination of false information.
The campaign is extending its reach to rural communities across five regions in Ghana. The initial phase of the campaign commenced on Sunday in Ayenya, located in the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region.
Speaking on behalf of the Acting Director of ISD, the Head of Public Education, Mr Frank Aseidu, stated that misinformation and disinformation are intertwined with technology, particularly through social media platforms such as WhatsApp and TikTok. Noting that in today’s world, individuals receive information directly on their phones and often feel compelled to share it immediately.
“This sense of urgency can cause people to skip critical evaluation, as they might not pause to check if the information is genuine, accurate, or possibly true before sharing it. Sometimes, individuals may not fully realise that the information they share is incorrect and that they should not have shared it. This situation illustrates misinformation. Disinformation happens when someone intentionally shares false information to serve a specific purpose or create a certain impact. This behaviour is observed within the community,” he emphasised.
According to Mr Aseidu, visuals play a significant role in public education campaigns. Noting that it is essential to incorporate visual effects to enhance understanding among the audience, particularly when aiming to influence people’s behaviour and attitudes, as they tend to leave a lasting impression
He praised the government for procuring approximately 40 new digital vans, aligning with its vision to modernise the operations of ISD.
“So, I call it carrying or moving alongside television. Typically, we have our televisions in our homes, and when individuals leave for the marketplaces and their jobs, they are unable to view what is being broadcast on television. Consequently, that segment of the advertisement where individuals promote on television is often missed because, during that time, the audience is not at home to witness it. However, this initiative brings television directly to the people at their workplaces. It is quite beneficial; the individuals are pleased,” he added.
He stated that Penplusbytes expressed great satisfaction with the vans. Indicating that the core aspect of the campaign revolves around visuals.
“The primary focus of their campaign is to present visuals to the communities. They can hear about the ongoing activities. It is truly remarkable to witness the level of interest generated by the digital van; even in the absence of a crowd, the message is conveyed, and those who approach later can see it for themselves. This illustrates how the digital van is indeed assisting the campaign,” he added.
The Program Lead of Penplusbytes, Madam Precious Ankoma, commended ISD for its participation in the campaign. Noting that the digital van is effectively reaching a wide audience, including those who are not physically present at the event location.
She stated that, in addition to the selected areas for the campaign, ISD is also engaging other communities through mosques, churches, and information centres; therefore, the campaign extends beyond the day’s activities and what they currently offer.
Mr Jonathan Amenyo, a representative of the Chief of Ayenya No. 1, advised the community youth to desist from spreading false information.
“I strongly advise the youth of this community that if they encounter any information, particularly rumours and misinformation, they should first consult us, the elders of the community. If we are unaware or wish to learn more, we can take the initiative to reach out to the appropriate authorities or individuals responsible. The DCE and the MP can provide further clarification. Therefore, I urge them not to accept any misinformation at face value and subsequently disseminate it,” he advised.
Grace Acheampong, ISD
