Zombo leaders launch initiative to combat digital disinformation
“Always verify information before sharing. Journalists and citizens alike must be cautious,” he urged
Zombo: In a bold step to address the growing threat of digital disinformation, leaders in Zombo District have launched a strategic initiative aimed at curbing the spread of false information through online platforms and social media.
The initiative brings together local government officials, security agencies, and civil society actors in a united effort to protect the public from misinformation, mudslinging, and defamatory content especially during politically sensitive periods.
Zombo Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Festus Ayikobua led the call for action during a recent district council meeting, where he revealed that he had personally been a victim of disinformation.
“There was a fabricated claim on social media alleging that I received money from a Member of Parliament. This is completely false,” Ayikobua said.
He emphasized that such actions violate the Computer Misuse Act, 2011, which prohibits the willful spread of false or misleading information online. “The misuse of digital platforms is becoming rampant. Parliament has already passed legislation to respond to these abuses,” Ayikobua warned.
In a digital age where online platforms are a primary source of information, Ayikobua urged communities to refrain from sharing unverified content, noting that the consequences of disinformation include undermining public trust and disrupting governance processes.
Zombo Assistant RDC, Bruno Manano, echoed the concerns while addressing misinformation related to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces’ peacekeeping mission in Eastern DR Congo. Speaking during a visit by the Acholi Paramount Chief to the Alur Kingdom, Manano urged residents to avoid spreading speculation.
“If you lack verified information about our peacekeeping mission, please refrain from spreading falsehoods. It could lead to legal consequences,” he cautioned.
Reports from Greater Nebbi suggest political operatives are using WhatsApp groups and other social platforms to spread unverified claims further intensifying tensions and mistrust among communities.
Zombo LCV Chairperson James Oruna Oyullu has taken a proactive approach by frequently engaging citizens online and sharing updates and photos of ongoing government projects to counter misinformation with transparency.
District Council Speaker Hassan Ringtho also called on local councillors to avoid using media channels to spread unverified claims. “Let’s be responsible digital citizens. Spreading misinformation only sets back our development goals,” he said during a recent council session.
The surge in disinformation is attributed in part to widespread digital access. According to DataReportal.com, Uganda had 13.3 million internet users as of early 2024 (27% penetration) and 2.6 million social media users. Mobile connections stood at 33.34 million, covering 67.7% of the population.
Globally, Statista.com reported that internet users reached 5.56 billion (67.9% of the world’s population) by February 2025, while social media users hit 5.24 billion.
Alex Pithua, Executive Director of the Zombo Press Association, stressed the media’s role in fighting disinformation. “Always verify information before sharing. Journalists and citizens alike must be cautious,” he urged.
District Councillor Francis Bolingo of Athuma Sub-County added that technocrats should take a more active role in public communication. “We need accurate, timely, and relevant information shared with the media to counteract harmful rumors and build trust.”
Zombo leaders agree that the fight against disinformation must be a collective effort. Through information and communication campaigns, community sensitization, and media engagement, the district aims to foster an informed public and safeguard democratic values.
The initiative also aligns with constitutional and legal mandates promoting ethical media practices and responsible digital communication under Uganda’s Computer Misuse Act.
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