Abstract

The proliferation of misinformation in the digital era has intensified concerns about content credibility, public trust, and the role of emerging technologies in addressing information disorder. This study investigates the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in detecting and mitigating misinformation within Africa’s dynamic digital media ecosystem. It explores how AI tools are adopted by fact-checkers and technology professionals across leading media markets in the region, focusing on practices, perceived effectiveness, and contextual challenges. Grounded in Propaganda Theory, Uses and Gratifications Theory, and Technological Determinism, the study employs a qualitative design, drawing on in-depth interviews with 12 purposively selected professionals, including fact-checkers, software developers, and machine-learning engineers. Thematic analysis conducted using NVivo reveals that AI enhances misinformation detection through automation and pattern recognition but faces limitations related to contextual inaccuracy, algorithmic bias, and ethical considerations. Findings highlight that AI functions most effectively as a complementary tool, augmenting rather than replacing human expertise. The study advocates for a collaborative integration of AI technologies with human oversight, institutional support, and platform governance to strengthen verification systems and safeguard information integrity across Africa.

Key Words: Artificial Intelligence; Misinformation; Fact-checking; Digital media; Information integrity.

About the Author

* Wakilat Kikelomo Zakariyau holds a First-Class Honours degree in Linguistics and Communication Studies from Osun State University, Nigeria and is currently a Masters student in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria. Her research interests include AI and media ethics, misinformation and disinformation ecosystems, digital inclusion, and decolonial technology narratives in the Global South.

^JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 17, No. 2, October 2025, pp. 99-112

© Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON).

Article Citation

Zakariyau, W. K. (2025). Artificial intelligence and the dynamics of misinformation: Examining fact-checkers’ and tech experts’ practices in Africa’s digital media ecosystem. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 17 (2): 99-112.

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