What we can learn from Julie Gichuru’s mistake on Twitter

Media personality Julie Gichuru was forced to eat humble pie on Thursday after she misquoted CNN journalist Richard Quest who is in the country.

Julie, through a tweet, had attributed this quote to Quest: “Nothing beats the service industry in Kenya. The hotels are not only classy but also unique.

Here I am surrounded by giraffes while having breakfast. In a country described by the World Bank as the ‘preferred investment destination in Africa’ probably attributed to the 6% GDP growth. What else can I ask for? Kenya is magical.”

Quest appreciated the quote but reiterated that he had not said those words although he was enjoying his stay in the country.

“Ahh Julie.... a nice pic and sentiment. But I never actually said that! (Even though I am having a very good visit),” wrote Quest.

Julie quickly corrected her earlier post saying: “Ok, I am fanning out right now @richardquest.

“Pole sana Richard, thought it was a real quote challenges of the digital era. Enjoy Kenya, it is Magical.”

Netizens had already jumped on the thread but I think the most important thing here is to accept that we all do similar mistakes.

The digital era has many challenges and key among them is fact-checking. Information is often spread quickly and within no time, fake news is actually perceived to be true.

Curbing this is not as easy as it may look but neither is it rocket science.

Fact-checking is key before sharing anything on social media and simple google searches can give you accurate information.

When you are not sure what a person said and you do not want to misquote them, it is always prudent to make a few phone calls and get the quote directly.

This may save you a lot of trouble and lawsuits in cases where libel is involved.

Also, do not share something if you are not sure of the credibility of the source.