By: Sering Mass Jallow
The Gambian Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, Tuesday pledged closer collaboration with Guinea-Bissau to combat misinformation, disinformation and the growing spread of unverified information through social media platforms and artificial intelligence (AI).
The pledge was made during a visit by Guinea-Bissau’s Minister of Social Communication, Dr Abdurahamane Ture, who began a two-day working visit to The Gambia.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS) in Bakau, Dr Ceesay described the long-standing relationship between the two neighbouring countries as a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation in the information and media sector.
He said closer collaboration between the two ministries would help address common challenges posed by misinformation while strengthening bilateral relations in other areas.
“There has never been a more important time for our countries to cooperate and work together. We face a common threat, and misinformation is a threat to every country and to information integrity,” Dr Ceesay said.
He noted that while misinformation has long existed, its speed and impact have increased significantly due to advances in digital technologies, social media and artificial intelligence.
The minister stressed the need for coordinated action to safeguard the integrity of information and promote responsible communication in both countries.
For his part, Dr Ture highlighted the growing importance of media cooperation between The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau amid rapid technological transformation and the increasing circulation of information across digital platforms.
He says the evolving media landscape presents both opportunities and challenges that require innovative and sustainable responses from governments and media institutions.
“The expansion of digital platforms and the growing circulation of information play a decisive role in promoting democracy, social peace, good governance and the development of our nations,” Dr Ture said.
He reaffirmed Guinea-Bissau’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with The Gambia and modernizing its media institutions to improve the dissemination of accurate and reliable information.
Officials say the partnership is expected to enhance cooperation in both digital and traditional media, strengthen information management systems and promote the responsible flow of information between the two countries.
The initiative is also expected to contribute to efforts aimed at improving media professionalism and addressing emerging challenges associated with technological advancements in the communications sector.
About the Author
