26/06/2025
Title: The Dangerous Rise of Tribalism on Social Media
It is deeply saddening to witness the slow but steady rise of tribalism in Kenya, fueled largely by politics. What’s even more disturbing is the role that some of our most prominent bloggers and influencers are playing in spreading this toxic ideology. Instead of using their platforms to unite and inspire, many are now actively dividing the nation along ethnic lines.
Social media has become a battlefield — not of ideas or progressive debate — but of tribal superiority, hate, and coded language aimed at inflaming tensions. Prominent online voices, with thousands or even millions of followers, are now openly using their platforms to push tribal narratives. In many cases, they disguise their posts as cultural pride or community empowerment, but beneath the surface lies a clear intent: to pit one ethnic group against another.
Some have gone as far as targeting specific communities, blaming them for the country’s problems or portraying them as political enemies. Others have mastered the art of tribal dog-whistling — saying just enough to stir emotions, while denying any responsibility when violence or hate erupts.
It is no coincidence that these tribal sentiments spike during election seasons or periods of political unrest. Politicians and their digital foot soldiers know exactly how to exploit ethnic loyalties for their own gain. And with the internet providing instant reach and limited regulation, these messages spread like wildfire, poisoning minds and undoing years of national unity efforts.
What makes it worse is that these influencers know their power. They know that a single tweet, post, or video can shape opinions, incite anger, and trigger real-world consequences. Yet, for the sake of likes, shares, or political favour, they continue to push the tribal agenda — with little regard for the damage they’re causing.
Kenya cannot afford to walk down this dangerous path again. We've seen where tribal hatred leads — from the chaos of the 2007/08 post-election violence to the subtle, daily discrimination people face in jobs, schools, and social spaces today. The cost is too high.
It’s time we called out this behaviour. Tribalism is not patriotism. Promoting your ethnic group at the expense of others is not empowerment — it's division. If you truly love your people, work to build a Kenya where everyone belongs, not one where identity determines worth.
As ordinary citizens, we must resist the temptation to engage in tribal politics. As content creators and influencers, we must use our platforms to promote unity, truth, and peace. Kenya is bigger than any tribe — and it's our shared responsibility to protect that truth.
Let us not allow politics to blind us. Let us not let tribalism destroy the very fabric of our nation. The future belongs to all Kenyans — not just to a few tribes.
