One of the most significant advantages of social media in Kenya is its ability to democratise access to information and amplify diverse voices. In a country with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and perspectives, social media platforms serve as virtual town squares where individuals from all walks of life can share their stories, experiences, and opinions. This democratisation of information empowers marginalised communities, amplifies grassroots movements, and fosters a more inclusive and pluralistic public discourse.
However, amidst its many benefits, social media also harbours a darker side — one that, though noticeable to the keener eye, often goes unnoticed, leaving a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. One of the most troubling consequences of social media in Kenya is its role in perpetuating unnecessary anxiety among its users. Politicians, celebrities, prominent, and even obscure people have grown very sensitive to social media to a point that many have become enslaved by it. This phenomenon is multifaceted and can be attributed to various factors inherent in the nature of social media platforms but is also a result of a mentality or perspective that probably needs correction.
Many popular bloggers in Kenya are essentially guns for hire. They earn their living through leveraging on the numbers their platforms are able to return. People use these platforms to make onslaughts on perceived opponents and to sustain this; they have to part significant amounts of money. The tricky part is that the bloggers employed in such activities will also post frequently what appears to be authentic and constructive information, which is their perfect guise. The information they circulate is never taken through any serious scrutiny and even when it is clearly sensationalist, or worse disparaging, they are not held to account. Maybe from time to time some people can file some lawsuits to try and do this.
Firstly, the proliferation of misinformation and sensationalised content on social media contributes significantly to anxiety among Kenyans. The circulation will totally believe or appreciate such screenshots of X or Facebook posts, which many times cannot be authenticated until one searches to see the actual accounts is a sensational aspect that creates unnecessary anxiety. In fact, many people believe such screenshots and do not research them further,
Following the raging floods across the country, people are, for instance, sharing videos and posts from the past to scare others even more. Recently, there was a post showing what appeared to be a posh estate in Athi River, Machakos, submerged in water with only roofs visible. The video appeared in the night, and relatives or friends of residents of Greenpark estate must have become worried for their relatives and loved ones. Turned out, the video was from South Africa and from long ago.
With the continuing rise of fake news, clickbait headlines, and sensationalised narratives, it has become increasingly challenging to discern fact from fiction in the Kenyan online space. This issue is exacerbated by the prevalence of rumours and false information that spread rapidly through social media networks, often causing panic and anxiety among the population. Whether it is rumours about health crises or economic instability, the unchecked spread of misinformation on social media can fuel anxiety and uncertainty among users.
Secondly, the culture of comparison and validation-seeking that permeates social media platforms can have detrimental effects on the mental health and well-being of people. In Kenya, as elsewhere, individuals often feel pressured to present an idealised version of their lives online, showcasing their accomplishments, possessions, and experiences in an attempt to garner likes, comments, and validation from their peers. This culture of comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety, as individuals constantly measure themselves against unrealistic standards set by others on social media.
Thirdly, the addictive nature of social media can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress among users. The constant barrage of notifications, updates, and alerts can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) and a compulsive need to stay connected at all times. In Kenya, where access to smartphones and mobile internet is widespread, the prevalence of social media addiction is a growing concern, particularly among young people who spend hours scrolling through their feeds, often to the detriment of their mental health and well-being.
Moreover, the lack of regulation and accountability on social media platforms allows harmful content to proliferate unchecked, further contributing to anxiety among users. Whether it is cyberbullying, hate speech, or graphic imagery, the unfiltered nature of social media can expose individuals to distressing and triggering content that exacerbates feelings of anxiety and distress.
In response to these challenges, it's essential for both individuals and society as a whole to take proactive steps to mitigate the negative effects of social media on mental health and well-being. This includes promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills to help users discern credible information from misinformation, fostering a culture of empathy and support online to combat online harassment and promote positive interactions, and encouraging moderation and mindfulness in social media use to prevent addiction and reduce anxiety.
Additionally, social media companies themselves have a responsibility to prioritise the well-being of their users by implementing robust moderation policies, combating the spread of misinformation, and providing resources and support for those struggling with mental health issues exacerbated by social media use. We must all take proactive steps to promote digital literacy, empathy, and moderation in social media use; we can create a healthier and more balanced online ecosystem for all.
Political commentator
