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From recycled videos to false claims and misleading headlines, misinformation often thrives during uncertain times. We’ll help you identify the red flags, verify information and stay informed.

A video can be real — and still be misleading.

We looked at a graphic video falsely claimed to show xenophobic violence in Benoni, Johannesburg in June 2026.

It was actually filmed months earlier in KuGompo City in the Eastern Cape and was unrelated to recent attacks on migrants.

Remember: Real footage + false context = misinformation.

Before sharing, ask:
📍 Where was this filmed?
📅 When did it happen?
🔎 Has it been verified?

🆘 Help us put facts over fear. Your support keeps independent fact-checking free and accessible for everyone.

Watch out for fake “breaking news”

A viral post claimed that Zimbabwe’s president said citizens fleeing South Africa would not receive transport and should “walk” back home.

There is no evidence that this statement was made. Zimbabwean authorities have said they are assisting citizens who want to return, including through transport support.

How to spot this type of misinformation:
🚩 Check the source: Is it from an official government channel?
🚩 Look beyond the headline: Does the full report match the claim?
🚩 Be cautious of “breaking news” graphics with no links or evidence.

Anti-migrant sentiment is rising in South Africa, alongside a surge in false or misleading content spreading on social media and WhatsApp. We've singled out four key patterns.

1. Recycled / AI visuals
Old or AI-generated images and videos are shared out of context to falsely show migrant-related violence or crime.

2. Fake or distorted quotes
Public figures are incorrectly quoted, or their statements are taken out of context to spark outrage and confusion.

3. Fake “official” documents
Convincing-looking government notices are fabricated to spread panic about deadlines or enforcement actions.

4. WhatsApp voice notes
Emotional, unverified audio messages spread alarming claims, often without evidence or sources.

Why it matters
Experts warn this content can deepen fear, division, and increase the risk of real-world harm when false claims are treated as fact.

📲 Seen something suspicious online? Reply to this email, submit it via our website, or send it to us on WhatsApp or social media.

A roundup of some of the most popular but completely untrue stories and visuals of the week. None of these are legit, despite being widely shared. 

South Africa 🇿🇦

SCAM: ‘Municipality is hiring’ advert just another job scam – visit verified platforms for legit opportunities.

SCAM: No, TikTok not giving away free data to commemorate anniversary.

SCAM: ‘Correctional services learnership 2026’ debunked by South African government department.

Kenya 🇰🇪

FALSE: No, Kenya’s Mediamax has not announced Kameme FM will go offline.

FALSE: Kenya’s national exams body denies planning to replace teachers with non-teachers as test supervisors.

SCAM: Kenya Medical Research Institute dismisses claims about recruiting volunteers for malaria study.

FAKE: Fake graphics used to claim Indian doctor contracted to poison former Kenyan prime minister Raila Odinga.

Nigeria 🇳🇬

FALSE: Nigeria’s ruling party has not released final list of senatorial candidates for 2027 elections.

FALSE: West African exam body did not announce deployment of security agencies to 2026 test centres.

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Your weekly dose of facts in newsletter form is created by Laura Kapelari (@laurakapelari). It is edited by Lee Mwiti (@LMAfrican) and Cayley Clifford (@cayleyclifford).