MAPUTO, Aug. 23 — Mozambique’s Defense Minister Cristovao Chume has urged defense sector communicators to strengthen institutional communication to counter disinformation and manipulation that threaten national security.
Speaking in the capital, Maputo, on Friday, at the second Seminar of Defense Sector Communicators, Chume warned that misinformation campaigns, particularly on social media, have been deliberately used to destabilize the population and undermine the country’s sovereignty.
While acknowledging that evolving communication technologies offer powerful tools to reach the public swiftly, the minister stressed the need for their strategic and responsible use.
“Communication must be proactive, anticipating crises and preventing the spread of false information. It must be clear, accessible, and aimed at strengthening trust between the State, the defense, security forces, and the Mozambican people,” Chume said.
He added that the government is investing in institutional communication to foster civic mobilization, consolidate peace, and promote patriotism. His remarks come as Mozambique continues to face security challenges, particularly in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, which will host the upcoming 13th edition of the Blue Festival. (Xinhua)
