Africa's manosphere: misogyny's digital rise
A shadow network of online influencers across Africa is amplifying deep-seated misogyny, disguised as self-help and masculinity advice. While the West grapples with figures like Andrew Tate, a parallel ecosystem is taking root, targeting a demographic of over 400 million young Africans – a trend experts warn could have devastating real-world consequences.
The roots of a digital problem
Sunita Caminha, leading UN Women’s efforts in East and Southern Africa, first noticed the burgeoning manosphere presence about five years ago. The problem isn’t new, though. Awino Okech, a security studies professor at SOAS University of London, points out that the core tenets of these online communities echo the arguments of older men’s rights organizations like Maendeleo ya Wanaume, which historically framed men as victims of progress in women's rights. What’s different now is the speed and scale of dissemination, fueled by social media algorithms.
The “red pill” theory—the belief that men are victims of a feminized society—is a central pillar of this online movement. Individuals like those profiled here are leveraging this framework to build followings and, increasingly, generate income. But the consequences are stark: women who express opinions face harassment, and online abuse directed at female politicians is escalating globally.
The digital space isn't just echoing offline biases; it’s actively amplifying them. Experts are drawing a direct line between online denigration and real-world violence, including femicide. The rise of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) is intensifying, with tactics like doxing, deepfake abuse, and sextortion becoming increasingly prevalent. According to the UN, up to 60% of women worldwide have experienced this form of abuse, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Meet the influencers
Amerix (Kenya): With 2.3 million followers on X (formerly Twitter), Amerix, also known as Eric Amunga, presents himself as a men’s wellness expert. However, his advice is laced with misogyny. He dismisses unmarried women over 30 as “red flags” and advises men to avoid oral sex, claiming it drains their “sexual energy.” His promotion of #MasculinitySaturday further disseminates his views.
Andrew Kibe (Kenya): Once a popular radio host, Kibe gained a massive YouTube following (over 420,000 subscribers) before his account was terminated. He’s since spearheaded Yafreeka, a platform intended as an African alternative to YouTube, though its success remains questionable. Kibe’s rhetoric is particularly inflammatory, famously asserting that women’s sole purpose is to bear children.
Àgbà John Doe (Nigeria): This anonymous figure commands a significant following on X within Nigeria's burgeoning manosphere. His blunt pronouncements, often signed off with “End,” are frequently labeled misogynistic. One particularly disturbing post suggested a man's character can only be truly known