Dangers of the internet - 15 Mar 2010

The media is a powerful tool in disseminating information, but online is even more powerful because it works at the click of a button. We send out newsletters to our thousands of subscribers loaded with information in literally minutes; once that information is sent out there's slim to none chance of retrieving it. Hence, you really need to be wary of how that information will affect viewers.

Remember the Rwanda genocide and how Radio Mille Collines played a role in spurring the killing of the Tutsis through heinous propaganda, well the internet can be just as dangerous a platform in spurring hate speech and hate crimes. Take for instance the current active Kenya-focused website, brought to my attention by one of our freelance journalists in the country, www.projectsee.com, which promotes aggression towards homosexuality as well as those who support abortion. Freedom of speech and freedom of expression aside, it is openly violating the rights of many people in Kenya, encouraging others to support the hateful cause. To condone its existence is surely unconstitutional and Kenya's government must be urged to be proactive and ban the website.

The internet should be a source that fosters learning and communication and is a key tool in Africa's development; Africa should not tolerate its abuse by narrow-minded minorities.