Africa-Press – Gambia. In a major step to enhance the fight against misinformation and fake news, Fact Check Center—The Gambia has officially rebranded as Info-Checked and unveiled its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan on Monday, October 27, 2025.
The rebranding marks a renewed commitment to counter disinformation, advance media and information literacy, and strengthen partnerships that promote truth, accountability, and public trust.
Speaking at the launch, Omar Saibou Camara, Executive Director of Info-Checked, emphasized that many of today’s pressing global issues—including migration, gender-based violence, conflict, and public health crises—are being intensified by the spread of disinformation. He highlighted the need for coordinated and structural efforts to confront these challenges in an increasingly polarized world.
Camara described the event as more than a mere name change, calling it a moment of transformative renewal and shared purpose. He said the rebrand reflects the organization’s steadfast dedication to truth, accountability, and democratic governance—at a time when information can either empower societies or be weaponized to divide them.
“Info-Checked is a commitment, and it will continue to stand for truth even when it is uncomfortable, for accountability even when it is inconvenient, and for transparency even when it is unpopular,” he said.
Camara highlighted that since its establishment, the organization has trained over 600 young people nationwide—including university and school students—and produced more than 100 fact-checked stories. These publications, which include fact sheets, explainers, and reports on hate speech, have helped nurture a more informed and responsible public discourse in The Gambia.
He explained that the new five-year strategic plan builds on lessons from the past and responds to present challenges. Its core priorities include strengthening verification systems, producing consistent fact-checks and explainers, promoting media and information literacy, investing in capacity building, and expanding research initiatives.
Chairperson of the Gambia Information Commission, Neneh MacDouall-Gaye, emphasized that access to information is not a privilege but a fundamental democratic right of every citizen.
She noted the paradox of the digital age: while information is more abundant than ever, distinguishing truth from falsehood has become increasingly difficult. “False narratives, manipulated content, and deliberate misinformation now spread faster than verified facts,” she observed.
MacDouall-Gaye underscored that this challenge highlights the crucial role of institutions like Info-Checked in advancing truth, transparency, and accountability in society.
“Info-Checked’s work is a critical extension of the broader information rights ecosystem, complementing our efforts to promote transparency, strengthen governance, and build public trust,” she noted.
Kodou L. Jabang, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Information, commended Info-Checked for its steadfast dedication to ensuring access to accurate information, tackling misinformation, and building public confidence in the media.
She emphasized that the organization’s efforts align with the government’s broader vision of fostering a free, responsible, and resilient media environment—one that promotes public participation, enhances digital literacy, and advances democratic governance.
Ms. Jabang remarked that “today’s event marks a significant milestone, not only in the evolution of Info-Checked but also in our shared national commitment to strengthening information integrity, media accountability, and citizen empowerment in The Gambia.”
Info-Checked, formerly FactCheck Gambia, is a Gambian initiative committed to combating misinformation and fake news. The organization verifies and debunks false or misleading claims, monitors public discourse, and evaluates statements made by public figures. Through its work, Info-Checked seeks to foster an informed public and strengthen credible, responsible journalism in The Gambia.
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