Fact-Check Process (Our Methodology)

Step 1: Claim Selection
We employ a comprehensive approach to claim selection. Our team monitors various media platforms, including blogs and conventional media, to identify claims that are worthy of verification. Additionally, we welcome suggestions from our editorial team members, media practitioners, scholars, and the general public. If you come across a claim that falls within the scope of our fact-checking efforts, you can submit it through our website, tweet at us, or send us a direct message on Facebook. It is essential to provide all available relevant information, such as pictures, texts, videos, and the source of information. We evaluate each claim based on its factual basis and public interest before determining whether it warrants fact-checking.

Step 2: Verification by Research Experts
Once a claim has been selected, our team of research experts begins the verification process. They conduct thorough investigations, including reaching out to the source of the claim or related parties for clarification. We prioritize consulting a range of sources, giving preference to named, authoritative, independent, verifiable, and multiple sources. Our goal is to ensure every element of the claim is examined to verify its accuracy.

Step 3: Report Writing Style
After gathering sufficient information and verifying the claim, we proceed to write a comprehensive report. In our report, we prioritize context, clarity, and transparency. We ensure that readers have access to relevant facts, evidence, and supporting sources that inform our conclusion. This is done to ensure the fact-check is accessible, understandable, and grounded in evidence.

Step 4: Editing Process
Before publication, all our content undergoes a rigorous editorial process. Our editors review the fact-check reports to ensure accuracy, coherence, and adherence to our established standards. This editing process helps maintain the integrity and reliability of our fact-checks.

Step 5: Publishing and Distribution
Once the fact-check report has passed through the editorial checks, we publish it on our website and distribute it across our social media channels. Our aim is to ensure that the public has easy access to accurate information. We prioritize wide circulation and accessibility to counter misinformation effectively.

Step 6: Claim Verdict and Typology Ratings
In each fact-check, we provide a clear verdict and typology rating to categorise the claim based on its accuracy. Our verdicts include:
TRUE: A claim is labelled as true if all its elements are factual information and verifiable at the time of assertion.
FALSE: A claim is labelled as false when its content does not align with factual information at the time of assertion. This category includes imposter content, manipulated content, and parody.
MOSTLY TRUE: A claim is labelled as mostly true if it contains some factual information that is used contextually and verifiable at the time of assertion.
MOSTLY FALSE: A claim is labelled as mostly false if it contains multiple falsehoods at the time of assertion.
By providing clear verdicts and typology ratings, we enable readers to understand the accuracy of each claim we fact-check.

Corrections and Transparency
In line with our commitment to accuracy and transparency, any corrections to previously published reports are updated promptly. Should new evidence arise that significantly changes the context or conclusion of a fact-check, we will issue a clarification or correction. For more information on our correction policies, please refer to our Corrections Policy (https://factcheckafrica.net/corrections-policy/). Readers are encouraged to contact us through our social media platforms or directly if they believe a correction is necessary.