The Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa)-Malawi has underscored the importance of Community Radio stations in fighting fake news.

Speaking to Yoneco FM online, Misa Malawi chairperson Teresa Ndanga said fake news has escalated in the country and has brought negative effects.

“There has been a spike in fake news during the fresh presidential elections, after elections and now with the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Fake news is impacting on decision making, the right to good health and the right to life,” stressed Ndanga.

She added that people have the right to access credible information and it is the responsibility of journalists and public offices to ensure that materializes.

“Community radio stations have the credibility within the audience that they are broadcasting to so we thought it was important to use their platform and discuss, characteristics and danger of fake news.”