Election periods are characterized by sensitive information and potential misinformation due to conflicting intentions, but today's technology can help minimize these issues.
Mozambique is introducing an innovative digital platform that employs artificial intelligence (AI) to counter disinformation and uphold information integrity during elections. While announcing the adoption of the digital platform -during a press briefing on August 14 - Regina Matsinhe, spokesperson for the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration (STAE) emphasized its significance for the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for October 11th.
The digital platform, named "eMonitor+," developed by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has already proved effective in countries like Lebanon, Tunisia, Libya, and Peru. Mozambique's adoption sets it apart as the first Southern African and Portuguese-speaking country to embrace AI for election integrity.
Matsinhe highlighted the platform's role in promoting information integrity and countering disinformation. "We're implementing an innovative AI-based platform to ensure information integrity," she stated.
The eMonitor+ platform employs AI and machine learning to analyze online media, identifying electoral violations, misinformation, hate speech, polarization, pluralism, and online violence against women. This analysis empowers election commissions and media stakeholders with insights through graphical representations.
With around 4.5 billion meticais (approximately US$70 million), STAE covers logistical aspects leading to polling day - from preparation, training, and material acquisition to transport, equipment, and human resources.
For successful 2023 municipal elections and subsequent 2024 general elections, an estimated 18.7 billion meticais (US$292 million) is needed to ensure proper preparation.
Mozambique's AI-driven approach underscores its commitment to transparent democratic processes. By combating disinformation and promoting fair practices, the nation sets a global example for modernizing elections.
Hikmatu Bilali
