How can we stay informed, not confused, in times of conflict? When misinformation spreads rapidly, access to reliable information and the ability to assess it critically become essential.
France 24 has featured OMNI Ethiopia’s efforts to equip young people with practical fact-checking and information-verification skills. Working in partnership with the Italian creative non-profit IMAGINE Foundation, and with funding from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the programme trained 86 students from Addis Ababa University’s School of Journalism in mobile journalism and information verification.
The training brought together two closely connected responsibilities: producing stories and checking the information behind them. Smartphones give emerging journalists powerful tools to document events and reach audiences. Using those tools responsibly also requires accuracy, critical thinking and care about what is shared.
These skills matter particularly during conflict, when misleading information can deepen confusion and make it harder for people to understand events affecting their lives. Media literacy helps young people question what they encounter, distinguish verified information from unsubstantiated claims, and make informed decisions.
For OMNI Ethiopia, this work forms part of a broader commitment to responsible journalism and informed public participation. Investing in young people’s ability to produce and verify information helps prepare a generation of storytellers who can contribute to a more trustworthy media environment.
Watch the France 24 English report: “Ethiopia: Social media becomes a battleground for propaganda.”