1. Our Mission
At the South Sudan Herald News Network, we are committed to publishing accurate, verified, and trustworthy information. In an era of widespread misinformation — particularly affecting communities in Juba, all South Sudan states (Central Equatoria, Eastern Equatoria, Western Equatoria, Upper Nile, Jonglei, Unity, Warrap, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, and Western Bahr el Ghazal), and the South Sudanese diaspora — fact-checking is at the heart of our journalism.
Our mission is to ensure that every story we publish is backed by credible evidence, verified data, and transparent sourcing.
2. Why Fact-Checking Matters
Misinformation can damage reputations, inflame tensions, and undermine public trust. In South Sudan, where news often travels quickly through radio, social media, and community networks, false or misleading information can have significant social, political, and economic consequences.
Our fact-checking process is designed to:
- Protect our readers from false or manipulated claims.
- Hold public figures, institutions, and organizations accountable.
- Strengthen informed public debate.
3. Our Fact-Checking Process
We apply a rigorous, multi-step verification process before publishing:
Step 1 – Source Evaluation
- We verify the credibility of every source.
- Official documents, eyewitness accounts, and direct interviews are prioritized.
- We cross-check claims with multiple independent and credible sources.
Step 2 – Data Verification
- Figures and statistics are validated using reputable databases, research studies, and recognized institutions (e.g., UN agencies, South Sudan National Bureau of Statistics, African Union reports).
- Where data is unavailable, we note the absence clearly.
Step 3 – Contextual Analysis
- We examine the historical, political, and cultural context to avoid misinterpretation.
- For sensitive topics, we consult subject-matter experts.
Step 4 – Editorial Review
- All articles undergo review by at least one senior editor.
- Controversial or high-impact stories receive additional checks by our editorial board.
4. Fact-Checking of User-Generated Content
When readers, contributors, or third parties submit stories, press releases, or opinion pieces:
- We verify key facts before publication.
- Unsupported claims are either removed or clearly marked as unverified.
- Opinion content is labeled as such and is fact-checked for accuracy where applicable.
5. Use of AI in Fact-Checking
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to assist with initial fact searches, translation, and data comparison. However:
- All AI-assisted checks are reviewed by human editors.
- Final editorial decisions are made by human journalists.
- While we aim for complete accuracy, errors may still occur despite rigorous review.
6. Corrections Policy
If an error is identified after publication:
- We correct it promptly.
- Significant changes are noted with an editor’s note explaining the update.
- Readers can report potential errors to [email protected]
7. Reader Participation in Fact-Checking
We encourage readers to help maintain accuracy by:
- Sharing credible evidence when questioning a claim.
- Reporting suspected misinformation in our stories.
- Submitting false or misleading claims they’ve encountered for investigation.
Send fact-check requests to: [email protected]
8. Transparency in Sourcing
- We cite our sources wherever possible.
- If a source requests anonymity, the reason will be explained in the article (e.g., safety concerns).
- We distinguish clearly between verified facts and unverified claims.
9. Commitment to Neutrality
Our fact-checking is non-partisan. We apply the same verification standards regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or region.
10. Why This Matters for South Sudan
From peace negotiations in Juba, to local elections in state capitals, to diaspora debates online, the accuracy of information can influence decision-making, shape perceptions, and impact peace and stability. Our fact-checking ensures that public discourse is based on reality, not rumor.