Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called on Kenyan youth to embrace technology and social media responsibly, warning of the potential dangers that come with its misuse. Speaking in Sabatia, Vihiga County during the burial of Mzee Evans Aggrey Luseno, Mudavadi acknowledged the transformative power of social media in driving creativity, job creation, and societal change. However, he cautioned that unchecked behavior online could have dire consequences for the future of the youth.
Mudavadi noted that global trends indicate a shift towards stricter regulations governing online behavior. “I want to encourage the young people of our country that embracing the use of social media is appreciated. But what we are seeing when it comes to the changes taking place across the globe should be a wake-up call,” he said.
He cited countries such as the United States, where authorities are increasingly monitoring social media footprints for various purposes including visa approvals. “Don’t be surprised that even employers are now looking at your social media behavioral activities. Be very careful not to shoot yourself in the foot,” Mudavadi warned.
As Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Mudavadi emphasized that online conduct could influence travel opportunities and job prospects. He urged the youth to remain disciplined and to use social media platforms constructively, noting that Kenya’s young population is a model of potential and resilience on the global stage.
Referencing past incidents, Mudavadi expressed concern over the rising cases of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and gender-based violence facilitated through social media. He stressed the need for aggressive policies to address such threats, noting that platforms like TikTok and Instagram have been infiltrated by predators targeting unsuspecting users.
“Predators have invaded the social media arena with the aim of luring the youth and inflicting physical harm, in some cases leading to murder,” he stated.
Mudavadi called for increased awareness and stakeholder collaboration to ensure online spaces remain safe and productive for young people, adding that Kenya’s future depends on a tech-savvy but cautious generation.
