As international newsrooms retreat from conflict zones, who documents the truth? This article explores the growing role of activist journalists in Sudan, the opportunities they present, and the difficult questions they raise for accountability, credibility and the future of conflict reporting. Don’t Be a Useful Idiot: Stay Safe Online is a digital literacy campaign that uses engaging animation and practical advice to help people recognise online threats, think critically about what they see online and stay safe in an increasingly connected world. The lessons of Ukraine’s drone war are no longer confined to Europe. From the DRC to Mali, evidence suggests that drone expertise, technology and tactics are beginning to reshape conflict across Africa, altering the balance between state and non-state armed groups. Artificial intelligence is reshaping Africa’s economies, societies and information ecosystems, but how is the story being told? Drawing on new research from Kenya and South Africa, this article explores the narratives, blind spots and opportunities shaping AI coverage across African media, and why a more nuanced, locally grounded conversation is urgently needed. The shift is already happening. AI is being used across South African newsrooms to speed up workflows and fill gaps, but often without the structures needed to ensure it is used responsibly. The result is a profession caught between innovation and uncertainty. Uganda’s election-time internet shutdown was intended to curb disinformation, but it may have deepened mistrust instead. By cutting off access to news and verification tools, the ban hampered journalists, fuelled rumours and weakened confidence in the electoral process, raising questions about whether such measures protect democracy or undermine it. A tribute to Sir Mark Tully, the veteran BBC journalist who became the “voice of India”, reflecting on a career defined by humanity, humility and a deep commitment to bearing witness. At a time when journalism faces new pressures, his work reminds us why getting the basics right still matters. We are excited to launch a new episode in our series exploring the shifting landscape… We’re proud to debut our new podcast series, Tech for Non-Techies: Episode 1: Is There an Avatar in My Newsroom? In this episode we dive straight into one of the most unsettling developments in journalism: the rise of AI-generated avatar news presenters. An exploration of how armed groups in Africa are increasingly using drones for surveillance and attacks, dramatically shifting power dynamics Exploring how armed groups in Africa are using drones not just for combat, but as powerful tools of propaganda and influence. Iran-backed Houthi ties with Somalia’s armed groups may accelerate drone proliferation and reshape regional conflict in the Horn of Africa. This landmark study explores how AI-generated disinformation is shaping geopolitics in Europe and Africa—identifying key actors, tactics, and solutions to counter narrative manipulation. Under the Influence: Online mis/disinformation in South Africa’s May 2024 election Kenya’s 2022 elections and the rise of influence-for-hire networks, revealing how digital disinformation campaigns shape democracy. Cyberattacks on aid groups highlight the urgent need for safer digital systems in Africa’s humanitarian sector.
The limits of activist journalists
Launch of the ‘Don’t be a “useful idiot” – stay safe online’ digital literacy campaign
Is Africa becoming a new arena for adaptive drone warfare?
Beyond the hype: How African Media is telling the AI story
Navigating risks and rewards – How South African journalists use AI in the newsroom
Did Uganda’s internet shutdowns during elections backfire?
Mark Tully – the industry has lost one of a kind
Podcast Release: Inside the Data Detectives Lab
Podcast release: Is there an avatar in my newsroom?
Book Published: Drones in the African battlespaces
Drones: A Propaganda Tool for Africa’s Armed Groups?
Houthis in Somalia: Friends with Technological Benefits?
AI-Generated Disinformation in Europe and Africa
Under the Influence: Online mis/disinformation in South Africa’s May 2024 election
A Question of Influence? Case Study of Kenyan Elections in a Digital Age
Keeping the Humanitarian Sector in Africa Safe from Digital Threats
Pride and Prejudice
Pride and Prejudice A journalist’s take on influence ops and “hacking” the electorate 3/8/23 By...
Finding the energy to be Green. ARC Insider no. 49
Finding the energy to be Green? Karen Allen and Tara O'Connor speak to one of...
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