UMWA exposes online misogyny against women on platform X

14 November 2024, 12:50 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

The Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA) has launched a report on online misogyny, revealing the alarming rise of digital violence directed at Ugandan women on social media platforms, including Platform X (formerly Twitter).

The study, the first of its kind in Uganda, highlights the prevalence of misogynistic content targeting women, particularly those in public roles such as politicians, journalists, and activists. Magret Ssentamu, UMWA’s Executive Director, stated, “This online research is crucial for Uganda, shedding light on the hostility women face in digital spaces. It is essential for advocating for the rights of women in Uganda and beyond.”

Joan Nankya, one of the researchers on this study, explained that over 1,640 social media posts were analysed, with the findings showing that men are three times more likely than women to post misogynistic content. Sandra Aceng, Executive Director of the Women of Uganda Network, emphasised that UMWA’s research is timely and highlighted the importance of protecting the identities of survivors to prevent further harm through exposure.

“The impact of online violence against women can be just as harmful as physical violence,” said Doreen Sampa, Advocacy Officer at UMWA. She stressed the need for collective efforts to safeguard women and girls as they navigate online spaces.

Jan Ajwang, from Media Focus on Africa, echoed these concerns, urging UMWA to collaborate with media stakeholders to create a more inclusive online environment. “With the findings now presented, UMWA has the opportunity to join forces with stakeholders to ensure that digital spaces are safe for all, especially women. UMWA can now bring everyone on board to fight together,” Ajwang stated.

UMWA’s Chairperson, Ahimbisibwe Charity, reiterated the organisation’s long-standing commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women. “Educating a woman is educating a nation. Supporting women means supporting national development,” she said, emphasising the importance of protecting women’s voices both online and offline.

The report further revealed that 73% of women journalists in Uganda have experienced online violence, making them 27 times more likely than their male counterparts to encounter harassment. Of those affected, 66% have resorted to blocking offenders, while 14.5% have deactivated their social media accounts to avoid further abuse.

Kyakunzire Laura Angel from the Uganda Network on Law, Ethics, and HIV expressed concern that some individuals intentionally post harmful comments online with malicious intent.

In response to the escalating issue of online violence, Assistant Commissioner for Communication Sylvia Biraahwe, representing the Ministry of Information and ICT, highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen communication laws.

“We are consolidating all communication laws and policies into a single Information and Communication Act. This Bill will soon be presented to Parliament, with the aim of making enforcement more effective and tackling communication misuse across all platforms, both online and offline,” Biraahwe explained.

She emphasised that the forthcoming Act would include provisions for addressing issues like online abuse, helping to provide a framework for safeguarding women in digital spaces.

This report underscores the urgency of addressing online misogyny, urging both media outlets and the government to take decisive steps in creating safer, more inclusive spaces for women online in Uganda.