Accra: Madam Kate Addo, Coordinating Director of Public Affairs Subdivision, Parliament of Ghana, has cautioned the public against the dangers of online misinformation, reiterating the need for digital literacy and responsible online behavior. She emphasized the importance of protecting digital spaces from the harmful effects of disinformation, misinformation, and various forms of cybercrime, which could erode public trust and individual safety.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Addo made this appeal during her keynote address at the Sixth Annual Ghana School on Internet Governance (GhanaSIG) Fellowship for 2025 in Accra. The fellowship, organized by E-Governance and the Internet Governance Foundation for Africa (EGIGFA), aims to train individuals in Internet Governance (IG) through a combination of online learning and face-to-face training sessions. This year's event was themed 'Beyond Access: Building Trustworthy, Inclusive and Open Internet for all'.
Madam Addo explained that internet governance involves collective processes for making decisions and policies concerning the internet's development, operation, and use. It requires a collaborative approach involving governments, private companies, civil society, technical experts, and international organizations to be participatory, rights-based, and globally coordinated.
She highlighted the necessity of a collaborative governance regime, noting that increased internet access and digital technologies present opportunities for social and economic development. She also underscored the role of internet governance in diplomatic activities and the formulation of policies on cybersecurity, data protection, and content regulation.
Addressing the theme, Madam Addo emphasized the need for protective measures for internet users, especially vulnerable groups. She cited statistics from the United States National Centre for Education Statistics, which indicate high internet usage among children, and noted similar trends in Ghana. She stressed the importance of addressing both the positive and negative impacts of internet usage, such as educational advancement and exposure to inappropriate content.
Pastor Raymond Mamattah, Founder and President of EGIGFA, mentioned that this year's fellowship included 52 participants selected from among 430 applicants, with notable additions such as awards for participants. Dr Felicia Nkrumah Kuagbedzi, Acting Coordinator at the Association of African Universities (AAU), reaffirmed AAU's commitment to advancing internet development in Ghana and across Africa.
