"Call 112" Exposes the Perils of Disinformation in the Digital Age
In a world increasingly reliant on digital platforms for information dissemination, the threat of disinformation looms large, jeopardizing societal stability and eroding public trust. The recently premiered film "Call 112," a collaboration between the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) and O Studios Entertainment, shines a spotlight on this critical issue, exploring the manipulative tactics employed to spread false narratives and their devastating consequences. Set against the backdrop of a parliamentary election campaign, the film unveils the insidious nature of disinformation and its potential to sow discord and undermine democratic processes.
The narrative centers around James, a financially struggling university student and TikToker, who is lured into a web of deceit by Albert, a shadowy figure seeking to discredit the outspoken incumbent MP, Teopista Ndyanabo. Exploiting James’s online presence and financial vulnerability, Albert commissions him to create and disseminate a series of TikTok videos containing fabricated information aimed at tarnishing Ndyanabo’s reputation. Initially motivated by monetary gain, James unwittingly becomes a pawn in a larger game of manipulation, his actions fueling a campaign of disinformation that rapidly spirals out of control.
As James delves deeper into the scheme, he begins to grasp the gravity of his involvement. The videos, filled with malicious accusations and personal attacks, gain traction online, spreading like wildfire through social media channels. Ndyanabo’s reputation is tarnished, her family dragged into the mud, and the electoral process itself is threatened by the proliferation of false information. James, trapped in a cycle of lies and manipulation, finds himself facing the consequences of his actions, realizing too late the damage he has inflicted.
"Call 112" serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of individuals and societies to the pervasive influence of disinformation, particularly in the age of social media. The film highlights the ease with which false narratives can be crafted and disseminated, reaching vast audiences and shaping public opinion. The accessibility and virality of platforms like TikTok make them potent tools for spreading disinformation, capable of bypassing traditional media gatekeepers and reaching directly into the hands of consumers.
The premiere of "Call 112" has garnered significant attention, with experts and stakeholders recognizing its importance in raising awareness about the dangers of disinformation. Anna Reismann, Country Representative of KAS Uganda and South Sudan, lauded the film’s ability to blend entertainment with education, emphasizing its crucial role in informing young people about the threats posed by disinformation. Recognizing the influence of online influencers on young audiences, Reismann highlighted the film’s focus on how these figures can be exploited to spread misinformation and sow conflict.
The film’s creators intend to use "Call 112" as an educational tool, partnering with the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI) to screen the film in universities and media hubs across the country. This outreach initiative aims to equip young people with the critical thinking skills necessary to discern between credible information and disinformation, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape and make informed decisions. The film’s message resonates with the findings of the 2025 Global Risk Report by the World Economic Forum, which identifies disinformation as a leading short-term threat to global stability, highlighting its potential to undermine trust, fuel divisions, and jeopardize societal cohesion. Film director Usama Mukwaya echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the overwhelming volume of information circulating in the digital sphere, making it increasingly challenging to verify its authenticity. Through "Call 112," Mukwaya seeks to leverage the power of filmmaking to expose the pervasiveness of disinformation and its detrimental impact on society, prompting viewers to critically examine the information they consume and actively combat the spread of false narratives. The film’s message is clear: in the age of information overload, vigilance, critical thinking, and media literacy are paramount to protecting ourselves and our communities from the insidious threat of disinformation.