The International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI), a pioneering UNESCO Category 2 Institute, has announced the official virtual launch of one of its continental flagship initiatives, the Africa Against Xenophobia Project (AfAX-P).
The launch which took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026 commemorated the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, underscoring the project’s critical mission to foster unity and combat harmful narratives across the African continent.
This project is perhaps coming on the heels of the persistent xenophobic attacks against nationals of different African countries resident in South Africa amid global outcry mounted on the President Cyril Ramaphosa government to stop the repugnant behavior of alleged sponsored miscreants.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the United Nations Information Center (UNIC), AfAX-P is designed to proactively address and mitigate the escalating spread of xenophobia induced by hate speech, and misinformation that threaten Africa’s social cohesion, regional integration, and economic stability.
The virtual launch event convened a distinguished panel of experts and representatives from various African nations and the United Kingdom, fostering a crucial dialogue on these pressing issues.
Panelists from Uganda, Namibia, Mozambique, South Africa, Nigeria, United Kingdom, Morocco, and Sierra Leone were in attendance. The discussion delved into several key areas, including: The significant role of media disinformation, misinformation, and hate speech in perpetuating xenophobic practices across the continent; The urgent imperative to address these challenges for a peaceful and prosperous Africa; and actionable strategies and innovative solutions to combat identified challenges.
In his message, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall stated that countering hate speech in the age of Artificial Intelligence required a collective effort: Governments must strengthen policies and regulatory frameworks that promote responsible AI use while safeguarding human rights and freedom of expression.
“Technology companies must design systems that are transparent, inclusive, and accountable ensuring their algorithms do not amplify harmful content. “Let us renew our commitment to Nigeria, and a world where diversity is celebrated, dignity is protected, and technology is guided by humanity. Let us stand together to say: No to hate,” he said.
Dr. Sharon Omotoso, Director of IMILI, highlighted the project’s importance, saying “The AfAX- P is more than just an initiative; it is a continental call to action. We are witnessing an alarming rise in digital hate that undermines our shared values and development aspirations.
“This project will empower communities, harmonize policies, and strengthen digital integrity to build a resilient Africa. We urge all African countries and stakeholders to join us in a strategic partnership throughout this one-year project duration to collectively reclaim our digital spaces for unity and progress.”
Throughout the one-year duration, AfAX-P will consist of a wide range of activities and strategic partnerships aimed to promote media and information literacy, foster high-level policy harmonization, and strengthen responsible digital communication to ensure regional unity, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of continental investments.
