BBC uncovers massive online network spreading pro-UAE propaganda to shape public opinion in Africa

BBC investigators have uncovered a sprawling online network consisting of at least 600 social media accounts deliberately spreading pro-United Arab Emirates (UAE) propaganda across Africa, in what experts describe as a coordinated attempt to influence public opinion throughout the continent.

The investigation, which took several months to complete, revealed a sophisticated operation targeting audiences in countries including Somalia, Sudan, Libya, and Yemen. These accounts systematically amplified positive narratives about the UAE’s foreign policy and humanitarian efforts while simultaneously criticizing regional rivals like Qatar and Turkey.

According to the BBC’s findings, the network operated through a carefully organized system of fake accounts that posed as legitimate news organizations or influential individuals. These accounts would create and disseminate content that portrayed the UAE as a benevolent force in African development while undermining the reputation of competing nations.

“What we’re seeing is an unprecedented scale of digital influence operations targeting multiple African nations simultaneously,” said Dr. Maha Azzam, a political analyst specializing in Middle East relations with Africa. “The sophistication of this network suggests significant resources and planning behind it.”

The investigation identified several recurring narratives pushed by the network. These included highlighting UAE-funded infrastructure projects, promoting Emirati diplomatic initiatives, and amplifying statements from African leaders who expressed support for the Gulf state. Negative content focused particularly on portraying Qatar and Turkey as destabilizing forces interfering in African affairs.

Digital forensic experts who reviewed the BBC’s findings noted that the accounts utilized a range of techniques to avoid detection, including coordinated posting schedules and content sharing patterns designed to game social media algorithms. Many accounts used AI-generated profile pictures and falsified biographical information claiming local African origins.

The UAE has significantly expanded its influence across Africa over the past decade through strategic investments in ports, telecommunications, and energy infrastructure. This digital campaign appears to be part of a broader soft power strategy to cement the Emirates’ position as a key external player in African development.

In Somalia, where the UAE and Qatar have competed for influence, the network particularly targeted content related to maritime security and counterterrorism efforts. In Sudan, messaging focused on the UAE’s humanitarian assistance following recent political turmoil. The Libyan content predominantly promoted Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, whom the UAE has supported in the country’s ongoing conflict.

When contacted by the BBC, UAE officials denied any government involvement in the propaganda network, stating: “The UAE engages with African nations through transparent diplomatic and economic channels. We reject any suggestion of involvement in covert influence operations.”

Social media platforms have begun removing accounts identified in the investigation. A spokesperson for Meta confirmed they had taken down several dozen Facebook and Instagram accounts for “coordinated inauthentic behavior” linked to the operation. Twitter (now X) has also suspended numerous accounts connected to the network.

Digital rights advocates have expressed concern about the implications of such large-scale information operations on African political discourse. “These sophisticated influence campaigns can significantly distort public debate and undermine democratic processes,” said Nanjala Nyabola, author of “Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics” and an expert on technology’s impact in Africa.

The discovery comes amid growing international scrutiny of foreign influence operations targeting African countries. Russia, China, and various Middle Eastern states have all expanded their strategic communications efforts across the continent as competition for resources, markets, and geopolitical alignment intensifies.

Experts note that the scale and sophistication of this particular network represent a concerning evolution in digital propaganda techniques. “What’s notable here is not just the size, but the tailoring of content for specific national audiences across multiple countries,” said Benjamin Strick, director of investigations at the Centre for Information Resilience.

The BBC investigation highlights the growing challenge of identifying and countering coordinated information operations in regions where digital literacy may be lower and regulatory frameworks for social media less developed. As Africa’s digital connectivity continues to grow rapidly, the continent increasingly finds itself on the frontline of global information warfare.