Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-09 07:00:00
This week, Kenya mourns the loss of a beloved figure: Charles Ouda ‘Charlie’, an accomplished actor whose impact on Kenya’s film industry cannot be overstated. His passing has left a significant void, especially in the realm of feminism.
I pay tribute to this remarkable man for his unwavering support of equality and justice for women and girls. One of his final public appearances was at the anti-femicide marches held across the country just two weeks ago. He was a vocal advocate against violence targeting women, and his solidarity with the feminist movement serves as an inspiration for women to continue fighting for their rights and dignity.
His legacy should serve as a catalyst for the ongoing struggle for a world where women can live and thrive in safety. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Our condolences go out to his fiancée, Ciru Muriuki, who has unfortunately been the target of cyberbullying amidst her mourning.
Tragically, whenever a woman loses her partner, she is often unfairly blamed. Instead of receiving the support she needs, she is ostracized and accused of being responsible for the death. This culture of shaming widows and girlfriends must stop. Women in these situations deserve compassion and assistance, not guilt and hostility.
The relentless trolling of women on social media has become a dangerous epidemic, pushing vulnerable women into mental health crises. These attacks often involve misogynistic threats, reputation-damaging lies, sexual harassment, and invasive privacy violations. Studies have shown that online harassment contributes to mental health issues, leading to degraded self-esteem, heightened anxiety, and depression. In some tragic cases, women have taken their own lives as a result of this relentless online persecution.
The pressures on women in today’s world, including online trolling and the burdens of a struggling economy, are enormous. Balancing careers, families, social lives, and societal expectations of perfection takes a toll on women’s mental health. It is essential for women to recognize when they have reached their limits and prioritize self-care. Health experts emphasize the importance of seeking professional support when needed and creating a lifestyle that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.
Additionally, action must be taken to address the online persecution of women. The government should implement stricter laws and policies to criminalize online bullying, and law enforcement and the courts should prioritize investigating and prosecuting such cases. A partnership between the state and social media companies to rapidly remove abusive content and users would provide relief. Affordable support services must also be made available to help women recover from social media trauma.
Ultimately, the internet should empower women, not terrorize them. Women deserve safety, dignity, and freedom both online and offline. Charles Ouda’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of allyship in the fight for gender equality, and his passing should spark meaningful discussions and actions to create a safer and more supportive world for women.
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