Fact-Checking and Artificial Intelligence Training Held in Uvira

The Comité International de la Croix-Rouge (CICR) in Uvira organized a two-day training on fact-checking and artificial intelligence, which concluded on September 24, 2026. The training aimed to equip journalists and influencers with the skills to verify facts and produce high-quality content. Mme Ange Kasongo from the organization Balobaki Check, which specializes in fact-checking, led the training.

The training covered various topics, including the role of journalists and influencers in combating disinformation, identifying fake news on social media, and detecting images generated by artificial intelligence. The participants learned how to write fact-checking articles and were introduced to the mandate of the CICR worldwide, presented by M. Christian Mastaki, the communication officer at the CICR office in Uvira.

The first day of the training focused on fact-checking, the role of social media platforms in disseminating information, and the importance of verifying sources. Mme Kasongo emphasized the need for journalists and influencers to be equipped with the necessary skills to produce accurate and reliable content. The training also included practical exercises to help participants apply the theoretical knowledge.

This training is part of a series of activities organized by the CICR with journalists from various regions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including Béni, Butembo, Goma, Bukavu, and Uvira. The CICR has been working with Balobaki Check to provide journalists with the skills and knowledge needed to combat disinformation and promote fact-based reporting.

The second and final day of the training included practical exercises to help participants apply the knowledge gained on the first day. The training aimed to enhance the participants' understanding of fact-checking and artificial intelligence, enabling them to produce high-quality content and contribute to a more informed public discourse.

The participants expressed their appreciation for the training, which they found informative and engaging. They acknowledged the importance of fact-checking and artificial intelligence in today's media landscape and pledged to apply the skills and knowledge gained in their work. The CICR and Balobaki Check plan to continue providing training and support to journalists and influencers in the region.

The training in Uvira is a significant step towards promoting fact-based reporting and combating disinformation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. By equipping journalists and influencers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the CICR and Balobaki Check aim to contribute to a more informed public discourse and promote a culture of accuracy and reliability in journalism.

Key points

• The training covered topics such as fact-checking, identifying fake news, and detecting images generated by artificial intelligence.
• The CICR has organized similar trainings with journalists from various regions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
• The training aimed to equip journalists and influencers with the skills to verify facts and produce high-quality content.