A rapid rise in online abuse across Africa has prompted activists and legal experts to call for urgent intervention, warning that expanding internet access is fuelling a dangerous wave of digital violence, particularly against women and vulnerable groups.
Experts say the growth of internet usage—especially among young people—has led to a sharp increase in what is known as technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). This includes offences such as doxing, deepfake manipulation, online harassment, sextortion and threats of physical harm.
With more than 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30, the continent is witnessing a digital boom that is simultaneously exposing millions to new forms of abuse. Researchers warn that online violence is no longer confined to virtual spaces but often spills into real life, leading to severe consequences including mental health issues, withdrawal from public life and, in extreme cases, physical attacks and femicide.
Women and girls, along with LGBTQI+ individuals, women in politics, journalists and activists, are among the most targeted groups. Studies from countries such as Ethiopia, Uganda, South Africa and Tunisia highlight a growing culture of misogyny and abuse online, with many victims reporting that no digital platform feels safe.
Despite the scale of the problem, legal and policy responses remain inadequate. While at least 17 African countries have introduced cybercrime laws, experts argue that most fail to address the gender-specific nature of online violence. Broader frameworks also lack clarity and enforcement, leaving many victims without effective protection.
The African Union’s 2024 convention on ending violence against women and girls—which includes provisions on digital abuse—has also come under criticism, with some experts calling it ineffective and even regressive in addressing emerging threats.
A key challenge, experts note, is the lack of awareness among users about their digital rights, coupled with poor digital literacy and weak law enforcement. Many victims do not report abuse, while authorities often underestimate its seriousness.
Activists are now calling for a multi-pronged approach, including stronger and more targeted legislation, improved digital literacy, better data collection and increased accountability for tech platforms. They argue that companies must prioritise user safety over profit and ensure content moderation systems are sensitive to local languages and cultural contexts.
Without immediate and coordinated action, experts warn that digital spaces could become increasingly unsafe, deepening existing inequalities and silencing already marginalised voices across the continent.
