Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
STS Develops Tigrinya AI Tool to Tackle Misinformation and Foster Peace
Mekelle, Ethiopia —Sustainable Technology Solutions (STS), a non-governmental organization, has announced an initiative to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model designed to fact-check information shared across media platforms and to support peacebuilding in the Tigray region.
AI for Accuracy and Peace
According to STS, the project focuses on creating a Tigrinya-language AI model that uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to identify misinformation and detect bias in media content.
The organization says the technology aims to strengthen trust in information sources and promote responsible communication within Tigrinya-speaking communities.
“This tool is expected to play a significant role in rebuilding public trust and promoting open dialogue,” said Engineer Gebru Gidey, Executive Director of STS.
“By supporting journalists and community leaders with verified information, we hope to create a healthier and more transparent media environment.”
Local Collaboration and Linguistic Integrity
The initiative involves close collaboration with local linguists and data specialists to ensure that the model accurately reflects the cultural and linguistic nuances of the Tigrinya language.
STS believes this partnership will not only improve the model’s reliability but also help strengthen digital literacy and media responsibility in the region.
Prototype Expected by Mid-2025
A prototype version of the AI system is expected to be ready by mid-2025, according to STS. Once completed, the tool will be made accessible to journalists, educators, and community leaders as a resource for verifying information and improving content credibility.
“Our goal is to use innovation responsibly to bridge divides, counter misinformation, and support lasting peace,” Gebru added.
A Step Toward Sustainable Technology
STS says the project aligns with its broader mission to leverage technology for sustainable development and peacebuilding. The organization hopes the initiative will serve as a model for similar efforts in other Ethiopian languages and communities.
The Tigrinya AI project marks one of the first localized fact-checking tools of its kind, positioning STS as a pioneer in the use of artificial intelligence for social good in northern Ethiopia,Tigray Region.
