In preparation for the upcoming general elections in South Africa on May 29, Meta, the parent company of popular apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, has intensified its efforts to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
With global elections taking center stage in 2024, Meta asserts itself as the tech leader in safeguarding online elections, boasting an investment exceeding $20 billion and a workforce exceeding 40,000 dedicated to this cause.
The social media giant announced plans to establish a South Africa-specific Elections Operations Centre to monitor and address potential threats in real-time. Collaborating closely with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), Meta aims to fortify election preparations.
Key initiatives include the deployment of the largest fact-checking network in South Africa, covering English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho, and Setswana languages.
To streamline fact-checking efforts, Meta has implemented features to facilitate the identification and evaluation of election-related content. Keyword detection technology is leveraged to aggregate pertinent information, aiding fact-checkers in their assessments.
Leading up to election day, Meta will roll out its 'Voter Information Unit' and 'Election Day Reminder' features on Facebook and Instagram platforms. These efforts align with Meta's commitment to ensuring a safe and transparent electoral process in South Africa.
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