Online Gendered Disinformation In African Elections- Case Studies: Kenya and Zimbabwe

The exercise of public discourse is vital in democratic societies, especially during elections. Sharing accurate information is essential not only for the integrity of elections but also for keeping citizens informed about societal issues. Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, internet usage has surged, leading to an increase in online information sharing. While this has enhanced freedom of expression and access to information, it has also led to the deliberate creation and dissemination of false information for political purposes. A concerning aspect of this phenomenon is gendered disinformation, which targets women and has been observed to emerge before, during, and after elections.

In 2024, over 2 billion people are expected to participate in global elections. This massive electoral cycle calls for a reflection on previous elections, particularly in Africa. This policy brief highlights the issue of online gendered disinformation in elections in Kenya and Zimbabwe. It analyzes the factors contributing to gendered disinformation and examines its impact on the overall integrity of elections. Furthermore, it offers policy recommendations to curb gendered disinformation before, during, and after elections, aiming to achieve equal representation of women in political and leadership roles.

Read the full brief here