AI warfare: How digital battle is shaping Ethiopia-Eritrea war narratives

Artificial intelligence is emerging as a powerful tool in shaping narratives around the growing tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, raising concerns about misinformation and the risk of renewed conflict in the Horn of Africa.

An AFP investigation has revealed a surge in AI-generated images and videos circulating online, depicting fictional military victories and humiliations on both sides. These materials, widely shared across social media platforms, are intensifying hostility and deepening divisions between the rival nations.

One prominent content creator, a 24-year-old Ethiopian with a large online following, admitted to producing AI-generated visuals portraying Ethiopian forces taking control of Eritrea’s strategic Assab port. According to him, such content is aimed at promoting what he described as a “national narrative” and countering opposing propaganda.

Pro-Eritrean users have responded with their own AI-generated content, including videos showing Ethiopian troops surrendering or leadership figures being captured. Fact-checkers confirmed that many of these widely circulated clips are fabricated.

Experts warn that despite their often unrealistic nature, these visuals provoke strong emotional reactions. Limited digital literacy in the region further increases the likelihood that audiences will interpret the content as real.

Analysts say the trend is particularly dangerous because it portrays war as swift and consequence-free, potentially influencing public opinion and political discourse. The use of AI in this context risks escalating tensions rather than encouraging dialogue.

Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have deteriorated in recent years despite a 2018 peace agreement and their alliance during the 2020–2022 Tigray conflict. Ethiopia’s renewed push for access to the Red Sea particularly the Eritrean port of Assab has become a key point of contention.

Recent reports of troop movements along the shared border and mutual accusations of supporting armed groups have heightened fears of another war.

Researchers also note that AI-generated propaganda mirrors tactics seen in other global conflicts, where manipulated visuals are used to boost morale domestically while intimidating opponents.

As the volume of such content grows, experts are calling for improved digital literacy and stronger safeguards against misinformation to prevent further escalation.

Despite acknowledging that AI content can distort reality and normalise aggression, some creators remain unapologetic, framing their actions as part of an ongoing “digital war.”

TNAM
Edited By Egwu Patience Nnennaya