The manosphere is on the rise in Kenya, and it’s having devastating effects on women. As I delve into this unsettling phenomenon, I want to share some eye-opening insights and stories from those on the front lines of this troubling movement.
Understanding the Manosphere in Kenya
The manosphere is a collection of online communities promoting a specific brand of masculinity that often undermines women’s rights. This includes various websites, blogs, and social media platforms where men discuss masculinity, often in opposition to feminism.
The Influence of Masculinity Advocates
One poignant example comes from Njeri wa Migwi, co-founder of Usikimye, a non-profit focused on assisting victims of gender-based violence. She recounted the case of a woman whose husband transformed into a derogatory figure after consuming content from Kenya’s leading masculinity influencers.
- Change in Behaviour: Initially caring, the husband became demeaning, reflecting the toxic ideologies he absorbed.
- Escalation: The situation deteriorated, culminating in physical violence, a tragic pattern noted by many advocates in the field.
Statistics Speak Volumes
Kenya’s patriarchal society is no stranger to gender-based violence, with alarming statistics highlighting the issue:
- 34% of women experience physical violence at some point in their lives.
- 13% endure sexual violence.
- Reports showed a 92.2% increase in gender-based violence during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real lives and the urgent need for intervention.
The Emergence of Local Influencers
In 2022, the global rise of figures like Andrew Tate brought the manosphere to the forefront, and Kenya is no exception.
Key Figures
- Eric Amunga (Amerix): With nearly 1.9 million followers on X, Amerix promotes narratives that demean women, claiming they are often “sex-deprived.”
- Andrew Kibe: A former radio host turned podcaster, Kibe’s content is rife with harmful rhetoric, boasting over 420,000 YouTube subscribers before being banned for hate speech violations.
These influencers have harnessed their platforms to propagate misogynistic ideals, and their reach is alarming.
The Role of Social Media
An analysis conducted between January 2020 and March 2024 revealed a staggering rise in the use of manosphere-related terms on platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram.
- 4,000 daily mentions of manosphere terms were recorded in 2023.
- Kenya ranked third globally in using these terms, especially during periods marked by heightened violence against women.
This online echo chamber fosters an environment where misogynistic views can thrive unchallenged.
Distorted Masculinity and Its Consequences
The messaging promoted by these influencers significantly impacts male behaviours and attitudes toward women.
The Misconception of Masculinity
Influencers often portray men as victims of societal imbalances, feeding into the false narrative that women are the enemy. They exploit male vulnerabilities to spread their rhetoric, leading to:
- Emotional Disconnect: Men feeling pressured to suppress their emotions, which creates instability in relationships.
- Hostility Toward Women: A noticeable increase in derogatory language towards women, particularly among younger boys.
Real-life Impact
Njeri wa Migwi’s observations in high schools show a shocking shift in young men’s attitudes. Boys as young as 15 are now openly derogatory, viewing girls as disposable objects. This shift represents a broader societal concern about the influence of toxic masculinity on the next generation.
Addressing the Issue
Despite the bleak landscape, there’s hope. Advocacy groups and mental health professionals are pushing for:
- Men’s Emotional Well-being: Promoting programs that focus on positive male role models and emotional health.
- Community Engagement: Involving men in discussions about gender equality to reshape narratives around masculinity.
A Call for Change
As Onyango Otieno, a mental health advocate, says, “We need more investment in overhauling the single narrative of what a man should be.”
This isn’t just about supporting women; it’s about reshaping what it means to be a man in today’s society.
Conclusion: The Need for Urgent Action
The rise of the manosphere in Kenya is a pressing concern with far-reaching implications for women and society as a whole.
As we navigate this complex issue, it’s crucial to amplify positive narratives, foster understanding, and engage men in the conversation about gender equality.
Only then can we hope to create a society where respect and equality thrive.
