Rising cases of cyberbullying and online harassment have caught the attention of creatives as Malawi joins the global 16 Days of Activism Against gender-based violence (GBV).
The 16 days of activism has highlighted the urgent need to curb online violence a form of violence fuelled by the use of digital technologies, including social media platforms.
In an interview, musician Rashley, who recently faced online backlash after speaking publicly about personal struggles, said cyberbullying has become a major barrier for creatives who rely on public platforms.
“Cyber-attacks affect how you work and conduct yourself as a creative. Sometimes being in the spotlight makes it hard to open up for fear of being labeled weak. It affects how you strategise and handle your craft,” he said.
Rashley said social media pages with large followings have been in the middle of escalating situations, making it even harder.
“When such platforms drag issues, people believe whatever is posted. If these pages took the responsibility to protect others, things would be different,” he said.
Fellow musician Sife Mw said although social media remains an important platform for creatives, it has become a space where people feel free to demean others without considering the emotional impact.
“People will say anything as they wish online, forgetting that before we are musicians, we are humans. I have been subjected to cyber-attacks before and it lowers one’s self-esteem and confidence,” she said.
Film Association of Malawi (Fama) president Dorothy Kingston, who is also a public figure, said cyber-attacks have increasingly targeted creatives, exposing them to emotional distress.
“I have gone through the worst, but I refuse to fold because there is so much to life. However, being in the spotlight, cyber-attacks still subject you to depression and a lot of pressure,” she said.
Kingston said many social media users fail to differentiate between a public role and the person behind it, saying there is need for more awareness for users understand their responsibility on digital platforms.
Arts advocate Zilanie Gondwe said the growth of social media has created both opportunities and risks, but said many users remain unaware of the responsibility that comes with digital engagement.
“There has been an increase in cyber-attacks and most victims are women, including musicians and others in the creative sector, forcing some to give up their craft. But we can’t stop the fight, we have to keep on pressing,” she said.
Gondwe said in spite of the increase in these conducts the country has strong cyber laws to protect and regulate users and authorities.
“Authorities should take prosecutions seriously so that people know there are consequences,” she said.
Gender and Justice Unit board chairperson Lynda Ndovie noted that cyber violence is rising across multiple sectors. She stressed that stronger reporting mechanisms on digital safety awareness and proactive law enforcement are needed to curb the trend.
With online platforms serving as key spaces for visibility, promotion and interaction, Ndovie said for creatives the growing hostility threatens not only individual well-being but also the broader development of industry.
