"Social media platforms have become powerful tools to amplify and share narratives. Like many evolving technologies, platforms such as Twitter or Facebook may be used for social good or for ill. Digital vigilantism (whereby social media platforms are used for organised shaming, hounding or doxing of ... a target deemed by the online community to have transgressed norms) may have real-world consequences. In extreme cases this may result in acts of ‘terrorism’ or other forms of unlawful killing. Yet while digital vigilantism may appropriate traditional law enforcement mechanisms, in some cases it may also try to hold law enforcement to account. Key points: Digital vigilantism, including using video material, is found in Kenya and South Africa, with doxing and hounding observed in conversations about foreigners in South Africa and police brutality in Kenya; in Kenya, digital vigilantism seeks to hold traditional law enforcement mechanisms to account through acts of shaming, usually without usurping their powers; in South Africa, digital vigilantism did at times seems to seek to usurp traditional law enforcement; in both countries, engagement and promotion of new ideas was minimal; key influencers leverage existing networks to amplify their messages, including by using video material – some of it fake – to extend their reach." (Summary) more

"Social media engagement alone can achieve limited results in promoting public accountability for police misconduct in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda but can and has served as a valuable tool in this endeavour. The percentage of the population in Africa that engages in discussions on social media platfo ... rms about the actions and behaviour of the police is currently small. This number has the potential to grow exponentially over the next decade with advances in mobile connectivity and as the public realise the power of harnessing social media as a tool to promote good governance and demand accountability from government. Social media engagement can facilitate communication between police agencies and the public, allowing for information to flow between these groups. Well-coordinated, strategic social media campaigns by civil society in the countries reviewed can mobilise the public, energise large groups of people and achieve tangible results. Civil society can develop systematic strategies to engage with the police in different ways. These strategies include using positive interactions to build trust and open the lines of communication, and using photographs and videos of specific events and incidents of police misconduct gathered through social media to demand accountability." (Key findings) more

"Although not always consistent, Boko Haram has ensured its narrative is publicly disseminated, which is revealing for a group that is extremely secretive. Messaging creates awareness about the group and its activities, which can tie into recruitment. Messaging demonstrates a clear pattern of expand ... ed target groups and geographic areas, while outlining group grievances. Boko Haram’s intended audience has shifted over time, but core groups have likely been augmented by expanding dynamics, rather than supplanted. Further research on Boko Haram messaging and its resonance within the local population should be conducted." (Key points, page 2) more