WINDHOEK, May 6 — Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) poses new risks to press freedom, including the spread of disinformation and misinformation.
In a statement on Saturday to mark World Press Freedom Day, Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that the press is expected to play a vital role in a digital era that is continuously evolving with the rapid rise of AI.
“With the rise of technology and the disruptive potential of AI, the press is expected to inform on the basis of facts and to educate the public, appreciating the critical role it plays in the promotion of good governance,” she said.
The president pointed out that as technology in media becomes entrenched, the rise of AI presents new dilemmas for media and press professionals.
“While AI can enhance reporting capabilities through data analysis and content generation, it also poses risks such as disinformation, misinformation, and cyberbullying, among others,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.
She, therefore, urged journalists and media professionals to avoid spreading false information and to report based on verified facts and in the public interest.
“Media practitioners should uphold the code of ethics and conduct for Namibian print, broadcast, and online media by reporting and disseminating information based on facts and the public interest,” she said.
Noting that Namibia remains committed to press freedom as outlined in the constitution, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the government would continue to protect the rights of media professionals while encouraging the responsible use of AI in journalism. (Xinhua)
