FactCheckAfrica Selected for Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024
FactCheckAfrica has announced that its innovative AI-powered fact-checking platform, MyAIFactChecker, has been chosen to join the prestigious Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024 program.
According to the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Abideen Olasupo, the recognition marks a significant milestone in the organization’s mission to combat misinformation and disinformation across Africa.
MyAIFactChecker, launched in 2024, is Africa’s first AI-driven fact-checking tool designed to empower users to quickly and accurately verify online content. The platform has already been utilized by over 15,000 users and has been recognized for its usability and authenticity.
The selection into the Google Startup Accelerator program will enable FactCheckAfrica to enhance its platform’s capabilities and expand its reach, helping to curb the spread of misinformation, especially during critical times like elections.
With approximately 24 African countries set to hold elections this year, MyAIFactChecker is poised to play a vital role in mitigating the impact of fake news on electoral processes, democracy, public health, and societal stability.
Read full statement below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FactCheckAfrica’s AI-Powered Tool, MyAIFactChecker, Joins Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024
Abuja, Nigeria – FactCheckAfrica is glad to announce that its innovative AI-powered fact-checking platform, MyAIFactChecker, has been selected to join the prestigious Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024 program. This recognition marks a significant milestone in our mission to combat misinformation and disinformation across the continent.
MyAIFactChecker, launched in 2024 by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), is Africa’s first AI-driven fact-checking tool designed to empower Africans with the ability to quickly and accurately verify news, social media posts, and other online content. This platform leverages cutting-edge AI technology to provide a user-friendly interface with functionalities such as a chatbot, feedback mechanism, and voice search capability available in multiple languages including English, Swahili, French, Arabic, and popular local Nigerian languages.
At the recent National Democratic Institute Africa (NDI) regional event, MyAIFactchecker stood out for its usability during a poll voted by critical stakeholders in the information pollution ecosystem when asked about new tools that their organization will explore more and consider adopting, a testament to its authenticity. Since its launch, MyAIFactchecker has been utilized by over 15,000 users, further solidifying its impact and effectiveness.
Abideen Olasupo, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, expressed his enthusiasm about the inclusion of MyAIFactChecker in the Google Accelerator program: “This selection is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of information in Africa. With the Google Startup Accelerator’s support, we will enhance our platform’s capabilities and expand its reach, helping to curb the spread of misinformation, especially during critical times like elections.”
MyAIFactChecker arrives at a crucial moment, with approximately 24 African countries set to hold elections this year. The platform is poised to play a vital role in mitigating the impact of fake news on electoral processes, democracy, public health, and societal stability.
The Head of Programmes at FactCheckAfrica, Habeeb Adisa, highlighted the platform’s potential: “MyAIFactChecker represents a significant advancement in our efforts to fight the dissemination of fake news. Our platform caters to Africa’s diverse linguistic landscape, allowing users to assess the credibility of news articles efficiently.”
In addition to the platform’s development, FactCheckAfrica has also launched a 3-month AI Journalism Fellowship for journalists in West Africa. This program aims to equip journalists with the necessary skills and ethical knowledge to navigate the integration of AI in journalism.
Nura Jimoh, Executive Director of BBYDI, emphasized the broader vision: “Joining the Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024 aligns with our dedication to leveraging technological solutions to address societal challenges. We continue to advocate for policies and ethical frameworks to guide the deployment of AI technologies across Africa.”
About FactCheckAfrica
FactCheckAfrica, an initiative of Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), is an independent, non-partisan, and non-profit fact-checking platform established in 2022. Our mission is to combat misinformation and disinformation across Africa, leveraging advanced AI technologies to ensure the integrity of information.