As 2025 comes to a close, Behind the Facts looks back on a year defined by one urgent question: how do we protect truth in an increasingly hostile information environment?

In this special wrap-up episode, host Thipe Maelane revisits six powerful conversations with fact-checkers, researchers and journalists working on the frontlines of information integrity across Africa and beyond.

From battling ever-shifting social media algorithms, reaching offline communities and verifying claims in information deserts to embedding fact-checking inside newsrooms and exposing foreign information manipulation – these voices reveal what it really takes to stop lies from travelling faster than facts.

This episode is a celebration of resilience, innovation and courage. It is a reminder that while misinformation continues to evolve, so do the people committed to challenging it.

As we head into 2026, one message is clear: truth doesn’t defend itself – we do.

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Africa Check, Behind the Facts, its staff or affiliated groups.

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Special thanks to

This episode was produced by the Africa Check team: Khumo Motaung, Tshiamo Mononyane, and Laura Kapelari. Your show host for this episode is Thipe Maelane, also from Africa Check.

Africa Check, the continent’s leading organisation promoting information integrity, helps you separate fact from fiction.