Urgent action needed to prevent surge in digital violence in Africa, experts say
Urgent action needed to prevent surge in digital violence in Africa, experts say
Africa’s activists and legal professionals are demanding immediate measures to safeguard women, girls, and boys from rising digital violence. Experts warn that the continent is witnessing a sharp escalation in online gender-based harm, driven by expanding internet access and a youthful demographic.
Expanding internet access fuels online harm
The continent’s internet user base is growing rapidly, with over 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 30. This trend has provided perpetrators with new tools to target women and girls, amplifying existing patterns of control and exclusion. Ayesha Mago, global advocacy director at the Sexual Violence Research Initiative, emphasized that the digital realm is extending offline inequalities: “The world offline is not safe, equal, or inclusive. The online world is accelerating this, setting the stage for an unequal future.”
“The world offline is not safe, equal, or inclusive. The online world is accelerating this, setting the stage for an unequal future.”
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence
As defined by the UN, technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) encompasses any act using digital tools that causes harm—physical, sexual, psychological, or social. It undermines rights and freedoms, often pushing victims to withdraw from public or economic engagement. The phenomenon is pervasive, with millions globally affected annually, including up to 60% of women who report experiencing such abuse.
Vulnerable groups and real-world consequences
Young women and girls, who are more tech-savvy, face greater exposure. Other at-risk populations include women with disabilities, individuals from marginalized communities, and LGBTQI+ people. Women in political or public roles—such as lawmakers, advocates, and journalists—are also frequently targeted. The impact is severe: mental health struggles, restricted participation in society, and even fatal violence like femicide.
Regional studies highlight alarming trends
In Ethiopia, a four-year study by the Centre for Information Resilience revealed that gendered abuse has become normalized online. One participant noted, “No platform feels safe.” The research found that while men face criticism for opinions, women endure misogynistic attacks targeting their appearance and societal roles. In Uganda, a 2021 survey reported that half of women experienced online harassment, underscoring the global scale of the crisis.
“No platform feels safe.”
Data gaps and international collaboration
Despite the scale of the issue, Africa lacks comprehensive data and legal frameworks to address TFGBV. International bodies are partnering with governments and tech firms to tackle it. The International Telecommunication Union notes that only 38% of Africans are online, with women at 31%. Yet, the rate of digital violence is expected to climb as connectivity expands.
Experts stress that online abuse can transition to offline threats, creating a cycle of fear and harm. With technology shaping modern life, urgent steps are required to redefine safety and equality in both virtual and physical spaces.
