Power to the African people - 31 Jan 2011
By Sindy Peters, Africa editor
Is 2011 the year when Africa's citizens unite and with one voice let their leaders know enough is enough? Is 2011 the year when they decide they deserve better? Is it the year dictators step down from power and yield to the people. It sure does seem so. On 14 January the world watched as former Tunisian President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali stepped down from his post and fled the country (with 1.5 tons of gold mind you). Since 25 January the Egyptian people have resolutely taken to the streets calling for the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak.
In both instances, social media was a key factor in rallying fellow protestors and spreading the message - it was the key coordination and mobilisation tool. Social media today plays an even larger role in Africa than I bet its creators had ever dreamt it would or could - and this is why leaders worldwide will fear it.
Egypt is facing one of its most defining moments in its history and social media has played a vital role in the organised protests we witness today. Corrupt, inefficient governments worldwide should heed the warning - the people have the power that could very well see your downfall. That power comes not in the form of guns and bullets and brute force; but from words, words that spread like wildfire in the digital age.
