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Think tank report explores opportunities, challenges for news media in AI era
Just like the previous revolutions in communication technology, the development of AI cannot escape from the “Collingridge dilemma,” says the report, titled “Responsibility and Mission of News Media in AI Era,” highlighting the quandary between the need for development and the imperative of governance in order to harness AI for the betterment of humanity.
According to the report, released during the ongoing 6th World Media Summit in Urumqi, capital city of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the majority, 66 percent, of the news media surveyed worldwide view the impact of generative AI on the industry positively. Additionally, 51.2 percent of the respondents had already started implementing AI technologies.
Media organizations primarily expected generative AI to enhance the timeliness and productivity of news reporting. However, they also expressed apprehensions about the potential credibility risks associated with AI, particularly regarding the “distortion and inaccuracy of news clues and materials.” A substantial 76.4 percent of respondents shared these concerns.
Additionally, a significant majority, 85.6 percent, of the surveyed news media believed that the application of generative AI required better regulation.
These findings were based on a questionnaire survey conducted in 2024. The survey covered over 1,000 respondents from 53 countries and regions, representing a diverse range of media outlets such as newspapers, periodicals, broadcasting and television stations, news agencies, websites, and mobile application service providers.
“AI is driving a new wave of productivity in news media, creating advanced productive forces across content collection, production, distribution, and evaluation,” the report points out.
It empowers both media organizations and consumers with enhanced experiences that transcend time and space, integrating virtual and real-world interactions, and facilitating human-machine communication.
Additionally, AI is fostering new business models, including a media-centric approach for everything, platform-based media, and a digitalized and intelligent industry.
The report, however, warns against multiple risks and challenges brought about by the uncertainty of AI and its misuse.
False information has escalated in scale, form and distribution, triggering a global crisis of authenticity, it says, noting that the technology’s limitations and the users’ private interests have created a “collusion” effect, polluting public opinion and negatively affecting individual perceptions and societal discourse.
Meanwhile, widespread value disputes and ethical dilemmas have put AI in a dilemma between development and governance.
The “intelligence divide” may further widen the gap between people, urban and rural areas, and between the North and the South, promoting technological hegemony and exacerbating global development imbalances, it adds.
The report proposes that news media should shoulder their social responsibilities, commit to a “people-first” approach and promote “intelligence for good” in the era of AI.
To achieve this goal, news media could accelerate intelligent-driven initiatives to enhance media value, prioritize ethical use of AI to establish robust standards, shoulder social responsibilities to optimize the cognitive environment, and foster dialogue and cooperation to improve global governance.
“In this way, powerful media forces will unite to build a community with a shared future and contribute to a better world,” the report says.
[Full Text: Responsibility and Mission of News Media in AI Era->http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/download/CgoMnGcL32CEKXweAAAAABHAdzY203.pdf]
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Video: 6th World Media Summit opens in Urumqi
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Ugandan man jailed in Kenya over false terror threat alert
Moses Kabali was found guilty by the Kahawa Magistrate Court, where he faced charges of hoaxing under Section 26 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act No. 30 of 2012.
Kabali was accused of writing a false email to the Interpol General Secretariat in France, requesting them to alert Kenyan security agencies, specifically the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit (ATPU), about an imminent terrorist attack.
In the email sent on June 30, 2024, Kabali further claimed that two individuals known to him, along with other unidentified terror operatives, were planning to carry out an attack in Kenya using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The prosecution informed the court that once the ATPU was alerted, its detectives launched investigations, leading to the arrest of a female suspect whose phone number was mentioned in Kabali’s report. However, the subsequent investigations revealed that the alert was false and misleading.
“Upon questioning, she disclosed that the phone number in question had been registered using her ID card but was being used by her cousin. A manhunt for the cousin ensued, and she was arrested in Eastleigh, Jam Street, on August 31, 2024. However, further investigations confirmed that she had no links to any terrorist group and was unaware of any planned attack,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said in a statement.
Kabali was arrested on September 3, 2024, at the California Group of Schools in Eastleigh. A search of his residence led to the seizure of two mobile phones, two laptops, and various documents.
Forensic analysis at the Anti-Terrorism Forensic Laboratory revealed that Kabali was the author of the email, which was found to have originated from his Yahoo mail account.
“It was further established that Kabali had sent the malicious email to the Interpol General Secretariat in France out of anger, intending to punish his wife after their separation,” DCI added.
Kabali was subsequently arraigned in court to face the charges. Chief Magistrate Gideon Kiage sentenced him to five years in prison with an alternative fine of Ksh5 million (approximately Frw 52 million).
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Five key issues shaping the upcoming 2024 US Presidential elections (Video)
Economic recovery from the pandemic and addressing the rising cost of living remain central to most campaigns. Additionally, there is heightened focus on the direction of foreign policy, with US relations with countries like China and Russia becoming increasingly significant.
Since the last election, the political landscape in the US has become more polarized. Debates over issues such as inflation, abortion, and immigration have intensified, driving deeper divisions among voters and political factions.
These five key issues will likely define the direction of the campaigns leading up to the November 5 election.
{{Candidates and Campaigns.}}
The frontrunners in the 2024 race have both their strengths and weaknesses. Incumbents may have the advantage of experience, but they are also closely tied to current economic and political challenges.
Challengers, on the other hand, promise fresh approaches but face scrutiny over whether their policies are viable.Debates will play a critical role in shaping voter opinions, providing a platform for candidates to present their ideas. With voters seeking clarity on key issues, these debates could significantly impact the outcome of the election.
{{Domestic Issues.}}
Domestic policies are at the heart of voter concerns. Healthcare, economic stability, and immigration are among the most pressing matters. Inflation and the rising cost of living are particularly crucial, with candidates proposing different strategies to address these challenges.
Social issues such as gun control and abortion rights are further fueling the intensity of the race, drawing clear lines between voter bases.
{{Foreign Policy.}}
On the international front, the next president will face pressing foreign policy challenges, including managing US relations with global powers like China and Russia. The approach to these relationships could shift dramatically depending on the election outcome, with candidates offering differing strategies on trade, diplomacy, and security.
{{Electoral Process.}}
Social media and digital campaigning have transformed the electoral process, allowing candidates to reach wider audiences and influence voter behavior. However, voter turnout will be a crucial factor in determining the election’s outcome, as historically, low turnout has skewed results.
Questions also remain about the relevance of the Electoral College system, with growing calls for reform to better reflect the democratic will of the people.
{{Political Climate.}}
The current level of political polarization in the US is expected to significantly influence the election. With misinformation and ‘fake news’ still prevalent, campaign strategies must navigate a media landscape that can shape voter perceptions and decision-making.
{{Predictions}}
As we get closer to election day, key trends are beginning to emerge. Voter turnout, economic concerns, and social issues will likely be deciding factors. Ultimately, the candidate who can convincingly address voters’ most pressing concerns, particularly on inflation and the economy, may have the edge in this critical race.
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Attorney General dismissed from Uganda Law Society Council
This action, led by renowned human rights lawyer Isaac Ssemakadde, underscores the ULS’s resolve to rebuild public confidence in Uganda’s justice system.
The ULS cited several reasons for Kiwanuka’s removal, focusing primarily on a conflict of interest due to his ex officio role in the Council.The society described this position as a colonial-era relic that is no longer suitable for modern legal governance. The ULS plans to challenge this practice through a constitutional petition, aiming to redefine the roles and independence of key legal officers.
Additionally, a forensic investigation has been initiated to probe serious allegations against Kiwanuka. The ULS accuses Kiwanuka of interfering with judicial appointments, further eroding public confidence in the judiciary.
Among the accusations are breaches of constitutional law connected to his private legal work, financial misconduct in land compensation cases involving approximately Shs 28.8 billion, and misleading the Cabinet on issues concerning judicial independence.
Another significant concern was the imposition of fees for digital access to Uganda’s laws under Kiwanuka’s tenure, which the ULS views as an obstacle to justice, particularly for ordinary citizens.
Human rights issues were also raised, with allegations that Kiwanuka condoned acts of torture and supported the use of military courts to try civilians, contrary to Uganda’s international commitments.
Despite his expulsion from the Council, Kiwanuka retains his membership in the ULS. However, he is no longer recognized as the head of the Uganda Bar.
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Water scandal speculations surround RTV head’s resignation
The Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), which owns RTV, confirmed Munyangeyo’s resignation on Monday, October 14, 2024, citing links to gross misconduct during his tenure.
“The Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) hereby informs the public that Mr. Munyangeyo Kennedy Dieudonné, the Head of Rwanda National Television, has resigned from his duties. This resignation follows the discovery of gross misconduct during his tenure,” RBA said in a statement released on Monday night.
The state broadcaster further emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity across all operations.
Although the RBA statement did not specify the exact reasons for Munyangeyo’s resignation, speculation began circulating on social media after a screenshot surfaced, showing a WASAC post accusing the media executive of illegally using their water.
While the post has since been deleted, a WASAC official confirmed that on October 10, 2024, the agency discovered Munyangeyo using water that had not passed through a meter. He was fined Frw 1,000,000 and ordered to pay for the water he had used before his reconnection.
“He (Munyangeyo) has paid the fine and settled the bill owed to WASAC,” Robert Bimenyimana, the PR and Communications Manager at WASAC stated, adding that only RBA could confirm the official reason for his departure.
“Gross misconduct could refer to various other reasons or wrongdoing during his tenure at RBA,” he added.
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Sauti Sol’s concert in Kigali rescheduled
Announcing the changes, the organizers of the concert stated that the rescheduling was due to circumstances beyond their control. However, the statement did not specify the exact reasons.
They confirmed that those who had already purchased tickets could still use them on the new concert date.
The concert, dubbed ‘Sol Fest Kigali Pre Party,’ will precede the main ‘Sol Fest’ event, which is set to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from December 19 to 21, 2024.
The Kigali concert will feature performances by Savara Mudigi, Bien-Aimé Baraza, Willis Chimano, and Polycarp Otieno, also known as Fancy Fingers, the founders of Sauti Sol.
The event will also include performances by artists such as Mike Kayihura and Ariel Wayz, while DJs such as DJ Sonia and DJ June will be mixing the music.
It is expected that there will be a VIP ‘Sol Fest’ concert on December 19, 2024, followed by the main concert for music lovers on December 21, 2024. The events will feature top Kenyan singers and rappers like Khaligraph Jones and Nyashinski.
The concert aims to preserve the legacy and honour of Sauti Sol and follows last year’s event in 2023, which was attended by more than 15,000 fans.
Sauti Sol, known for their numerous hit songs such as Sura Yako, Suzanna, Short N Sweet, and Live and Die in Africa, was formed in 2005. The group announced an indefinite hiatus in 2023.
The hiatus, the band said, would allow them to pursue individual and collective passions after 18 years of doing music together.
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EIB Global allocates €2 million to support vaccine development in Rwanda
This funding aims to boost research, development, and manufacturing of vaccines targeting infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, Lassa fever, and Ebola.
According to an EIB statement, the financing will also strengthen the technical skills and expertise of Rwanda-based teams to support local vaccine discovery, manufacturing, and the development of vaccine delivery systems.
This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s broader goal of fostering home-grown healthcare solutions.
The latest health investment from EIB Global is part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative for Africa, which seeks to unlock critical investments aimed at improving public healthcare access.
EIB Global’s focus is on high-impact investments that enhance healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing across Africa, strengthen health resilience, and support equitable access to healthcare on the continent.
Africa bears the highest global disease burden, and more local solutions are necessary to address these challenges. Vaccination plays a crucial role in driving investments toward universal healthcare and is key to achieving 14 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Akagera Medicines Africa was established in Rwanda in July 2022 to advance the pharmaceutical sector both within the country and across the continent. The company is majority-owned by the Republic of Rwanda through the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB).
Speaking at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Germany, where the financing announcement was made, Michael Fairbanks, CEO of Akagera Medicines, praised the European Investment Bank’s support, expressing optimism about building human capacity and specialized infrastructure in Africa to advance vaccine development. The summit runs from October 13 to 15, 2024.
EIB Vice President, Thomas Östros, emphasized the importance of partnerships with both public and private entities in combating deadly diseases.
“The EIB is committed to further strengthening our partnership with local and international players, to scale up investment and support innovative technology together,” he said.
EU Ambassador to Rwanda, Belen Calvo Uyarra, remarked, “Through Global Gateway, the EU is focused on advancing equitable access to health products and local manufacturing in Africa. This investment by EIB with Akagera Medicines marks another important milestone on this journey.”
The financing for Akagera Medicines complements other EU initiatives in Rwanda and the region under the Global Gateway Flagship—Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines, and Health Technologies (MAV+).
This broader effort focuses on supporting the necessary ecosystem for vaccine manufacturing and is backed by the EU-Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund (EU-AITF), which aims to increase infrastructure investment in Sub-Saharan Africa, reduce poverty, and foster economic growth in the region.
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Fire guts parts of Muhabura Hotel
The fire caused significant damage to the affected areas, reducing everything inside to ashes. Fortunately, the response by the FRB prevented the fire from spreading to other buildings.
SP Mwiseneza Jean Bosco, the Northern Province Police Spokesperson, confirmed the incident, stating that while the fire has been fully extinguished, the cause remains unknown and is currently under investigation.
“The cause of the fire is not yet known. An investigation has started to determine the cause. The value of the damaged property is still being assessed,” he said.
He also reminded the public to take precautions against fire hazards and emphasized the importance of insuring properties to mitigate potential losses.
“Our message to the public is to avoid anything that could lead to a fire accident because it can result in loss of life and financial damages. We also urge business owners to ensure their businesses are insured,” added SP Mwiseneza.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported being caught off guard by the fire, which they say originated in the kitchen before rapidly spreading to other parts of the hotel.
Muhabura Hotel, a landmark in Musanze District, has been a staple of the region’s hospitality industry since 1954, marking 70 years of operation this year.
