Famous comedian Mulamwah is the latest celebrity to come out and speak up on the negative effects cyberbullying has had in his life, but by no means is he the first.
Cyberbullying in the country has grown exponentially within the last few years thanks to the ease of access to mobile phones and technology, especially social media.
Many people are attacked on the internet day and night by keyboard warriors who hide behind their screens dishing out bile.
The worst-hit are definitely celebrities and people in the limelight. Quite often, when celebrities make mistakes, online audiences are quick to judge. Challenges and memes trend almost instantly and add salt to injury.
Gospel musician Jimmy Gait shared his personal experience on the issue. He says he almost quit music and killed himself because of it.
Gospel artist Kambua also went through it because she had not bore a child in many years.
“People will have an opinion over everything, over children. Today I saw a comment and deleted it because this guy commented on my Instagram and he says ‘When are you going to get pregnant, you’re getting old’.
“I remember thinking, the reason why it angers me is that people don’t even know what your journey is like. They don’t know what you’re struggling with. They don’t know if you even want to have children. They don’t know if you can have children and there are so many people especially today who are struggling with infertility,” said Kambua.
Almost every celebrity will admit to having gone through the shits with cyberbullying, and many like Mulamwah quit.
Here are some ways we can tackle cyberbullying.
Don’t take the internet personally
The internet is full of people who have different upbringings and standpoints. The best way to avoid the crossfires of online trolls is to practise self love. Use the internet for your entertainment but never be dependent on it. Dettach yourself from the negativity.
Think twice before posting
Always ask yourself why you are posting something before posting. Whether it is a happy photo or a semi nude one, if you’re doing it for the likes, you’re probably going to end up the loser.
Be Mindful of others
When navigating through social media, everyone has a right to their opinion. But before you sit down and write something, put yourself in the recepient’s shoes. If it does not encourage and support, keep it to yourself.
Block and Report
These two features on social media platforms can help you navigate more smoothly. If someone starts attacking you online, block and report them immediately.
Not retaliating on hurtful comments
As trigger happy as replying a hurtful comment with another one is, avoid doing it at all costs. It is not worth your peace.
Speak Up
Create awareness and promote the importance of digital empathy and digital etiquette. By enforcing the same moral values we expect all people to abide by day to day online, we can ensure that we are collectively better behaved and mature when addressing posting content. And the only way for our children to embrace this, is if we lead by example.