Across Africa, a new wave of online influencers is fueling the rise of the “manosphere,” a loosely connected network that claims to address young men’s struggles with dating and identity. From Kenya’s Amerix to Zimbabwe’s Shadaya Knight, these figures are amassing millions of followers by blending self-improvement advice with aggressive misogyny. Experts warn that these narratives, often rooted in “red pill” ideology, are not new but have been amplified by digital platforms. In places like Nigeria, financial incentives from social media platforms further fuel the fire, making toxic content more profitable than traditional careers. Increasingly, the impact is spilling offline, contributing to harassment, abuse, and even violence against women—raising urgent concerns about regulation and accountability.
The Guardian
