We are a non-profit pro-democracy civic-tech research lab dedicated to combating digital threats against truth, democracy, and social unity. Across the Global South, democratic processes are a toxic mix between deliberate disinformation, unintentional misinformation, social divisions, and rising polarization. With technological advancements, confronting these digital threats, such as deep fakes and cheap fakes, is becoming more challenging.
Our work addresses societal challenges related to democratic stability, human rights, and ethical technology development in developing nations. We investigate how emerging digital threats, such as synthetic media, surveillance tools, and coordinated or gendered disinformation campaigns, could undermine free and fair elections, amplify hate speech and ethnic tensions, and erode public trust in institutions. Through technical research, policy advocacy, and multi-stakeholder engagement, we aim to anticipate and mitigate these threats before they can be weaponized to destabilize nations.
We explore how technology can protect citizens and societies in the global south.
To defend truth, democracy, and social cohesion in the global south by countering digital threats through research, open-source solutions, and impactful policy recommendations.
A future where democratic processes, human rights, and ethical technology development are safeguarded from digital threats across the global majority.
Free and open source software + Open content and open standards + Democratic, accountable and transparent governance + Local initiative and ownership + Social and gender equality Inclusiveness and diversity
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Our global team operates across Nairobi, Kampala, Copenhagen, and Washington D.C.
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Research Operations
Researcher – Tech and Society
Mable Barbara Amuron is a researcher exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence, digital culture, and the societal impacts of technology, with a particular focus on misinformation and disinformation. Building on her strong editorial and literary background, she investigates how AI systems shape the creation, circulation, and perception of information in online spaces.
Her work investigates AI-driven mis/disinformation, such as deepfakes, automated content, and algorithmic amplification, and their effects on public trust, democracy, and culture. Through interdisciplinary research, she analyzes the technical, ethical, and social dimensions of emerging technologies while advocating for transparency, accountability, and equitable access to information.
Key areas of expertise:
Misinformation & Disinformation: Evolution of false information ecosystems, detection, and societal responses.
AI & Society: Impacts of machine learning, generative AI, and data governance on communication and decision-making.
Research Communication & Editing: Making complex technological ideas accessible and engaging.
Mable’s work seeks to counter the weaponization of AI and digital tools while highlighting their potential to support informed, resilient communities through ethical storytelling and critical analysis.
Tech Lead
Joachim Gwoke is the Tech Lead and works on anything open source at Thraets. He is a dedicated free open source software researcher and activist who specializes in integrating diverse free open source tools and data sources to enhance governance, social research, and digital platforms through open collaboration.
Joachim has engineered solutions for organizations like AFLI in Uganda, conducted parliamentary audits and policy analysis using FOSS principles. He continues to champion remote GIS for grassroots initiatives and empowering local communities with open-source data and tools.
Researcher
Samson is a creative who brings a strong mix of technical skills and innovative thinking to the team. He’s passionate about building unique solutions for overlooked problems and thrives on the freedom to explore new ideas. Driven by curiosity and a love of change, he’s always pushing boundaries to create meaningful impact.
