PPLAAF, a protection platform for whistle blowers in Africa has been launched in the Senegalese capital, Dakar.

According to Ceoafrica, the group formed of lawyers, legal associations and non-governmental organisations aims to reduce the risks that whistle-blowers face by providing technical, legal and media assistance.

So called whistle-blowers are under increasing threat, the group said. 

The platform's goal is to provide a support system for those "who choose to do what is right by defending the common good" without having to pay for it sometimes even with their lives.

The platform, which is available in French and English, also aims to defend whistle-blowers by helping to find funding for legal representation.

The group also allows users to send information via a secure, encrypted messaging service.

PPLAAF says it is not only intended for African journalists but for anyone "whether they come from Africa or the information they wish to share concerns Africa".