FactCheckAfrica’s MyAIFactChecker joins Google startup accelerator Africa 2024
FactCheckAfrica, a leading initiative in combating misinformation has announced the inclusion of its AI-powered platform, MyAIFactChecker, in the prestigious Google Startup Accelerator Africa 2024 program.
This selection marks a major achievement for the platform, which aims to empower Africans with accurate information verification tools.
MyAIFactChecker, launched earlier this year by the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), is the continent’s first AI-driven fact-checking tool. It offers a user-friendly interface that includes features like a chatbot, feedback mechanism, and voice search in multiple languages, including English, Swahili, French, Arabic, and several local Nigerian languages and since its launch, MyAIFactChecker has attracted over 15,000 users, reflecting its growing influence.
Abideen Olasupo, Co-founder and CEO, spoke about the platform’s inclusion in the Google Accelerator program, stating that “This selection underscores our commitment to protecting the integrity of information in Africa. With the support of Google, we aim to enhance our platform’s capabilities and expand its reach, particularly in crucial times like elections.”
With 24 African countries expected to hold elections this year, MyAIFactChecker is positioned to play a critical role in curbing the spread of fake news.
Habeeb Adisa, Head of Programmes at FactCheckAfrica, emphasized the platform’s significance “Our tool addresses the diverse linguistic needs of Africa, enabling efficient assessment of news credibility.”
FactCheckAfrica has initiated a 3-month AI Journalism Fellowship for West African journalists. This fellowship aims to equip journalists with essential skills and ethical understanding for integrating AI in journalism.
Nura Jimoh, Executive Director of BBYDI, highlighted the broader vision “Joining the Google Startup Accelerator aligns with our commitment to using technology to solve societal issues. We advocate for policies and ethical frameworks to guide AI deployment across Africa,” he said.
