Investigative journalist sounds warning bells about AI in the newsroom
The 20th African Investigative Journalism Conference flashed some red warning lights
#Johannesburg #media - The 20th African Investigative Journalism Conference wrapped up last week at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, with some red flashing warning lights from key speakers about low levels of AI skills amongst many journalists, coupled with poor guidance or policy on the implications of using AI tools for investigating stories.
SO WHAT? - AI is already being used to create fake news and concocted evidence to support false narratives: a huge threat to civil liberties and political freedoms. Primary research is the key to combatting this, and AI can either be a massive ally, or a dangerously misunderstood tool that can make truth even harder to discern. A number of presentations and workshops at this year’s AIJC looked to help turn AI into a force for good in journalism on this continent.
IMO - African media may be a little behind the curve in leveraging AI compared with US media. However, media debate and a deepening understanding of AI are an important step forwards. Only through proactive measures can media both realise the benefits of AI and protect against the risks of fake news and misleading narratives.