Hagiga Wahid: Countering Misinformation in South Sudan

This project helps contribute to stability in South Sudan by countering misinformation which exacerbates conflict and hinders responses to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The project supports the Hagiga Wahid pilot initiative an interactive two-way mobile phone-based information system that engages citizens in monitoring verifying and countering the spread of misinformation. Subscribers to the information communication technology system can anonymously report rumours via channels such as text-messaging toll-free voice lines and social media. This information is securely stored on a server outside of South Sudan in accordance with data protection in humanitarian action best practice. Staff a network of trained volunteers and trusted key stakeholders investigate these rumors and report their findings back to the subscriber. Project activities include: (1) adapting the SMS pilot-tested short code to nation-wide reach; and (2) building the local subscriber base from 500 to 5 000. The key elements of this work include trust building the provision of timely and reliable information engaging widely with different communities to mitigate bias and targeted messaging to beneficiaries based on self-identified needs.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) established an interactive public communications network to enable subscribers including citizens civil society actors and local media outlets to benefit from improved access to neutral accurate information; (2) improved nation-wide access to accurate daily information for individuals residing and working in South Sudan; (3) facilitated informed decision-making to those residing and working in South Sudan; and (4) support provided to a community of practice about countering misinformation.