Minister Baluku urges united front against AI-driven misinformation
The Minister of State for Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku, has emphasised the critical need to address the proliferation of misinformation in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
He made the remarks during the Annual media convention organised by the Uganda Communications Commission(UCC).
In a thought-provoking address, Minister Baluku highlighted the transformative power of AI, stressing its potential to influence various facets of society, particularly global communications.
"It holds the power to influence nearly every aspect of our lives, including global communications. However, this power can be a double-edged sword while AI can be misused to amplify deceptive content, it also has the potential to filter and promote accurate information ,"he stated.
He underscored the dual nature of AI, citing its capability to both propagate and combat misinformation.
Minister Baluku called for a united front, urging stakeholders such as government entities, tech firms, policymakers, academia, and civil society to collaborate in devising robust strategies to tackle this pressing issue.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to increasing investments in research and education to equip communities with the necessary skills to navigate the complex information landscape of today.
Emphasizing the importance of staying abreast of technological advancements, Minister Balulu urged the Uganda Communications Commission to proactively adapt to the rapid evolution of AI. He stressed the imperative of establishing ethical standards for AI development, advocating for transparency, accountability, and responsible usage.
Additionally, Minister Baluku recognized the pivotal role of educational institutions like Makerere University in fostering research and dialogue to confront these challenges effectively.
He emphasised the collective responsibility to leverage AI for the betterment of society, ensuring it contributes to a more knowledgeable, informed, and resilient populace.
The Minister expressed anticipation for the valuable insights that would emerge from the day's discussions, highlighting their significance in shaping a future where AI is harnessed for the greater good.
