A new campaign aimed at tackling online harassment and promoting empathy on social media has been launched at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM).
The Scroll Bila Troll initiative, supported by Amnesty International Kenya, officially kicked off on October 17.
Its message was simple but powerful: make the internet a safer and more respectful space for everyone.
One of the campaign’s organisers, Frankline Kimtai, said research conducted ahead of the launch found that many young people in Mombasa – particularly TikTok users – have experienced cyberbullying or online harassment based on gender, sexuality, religion, or political beliefs.
“The university was the perfect place to launch this. It’s home to young people who spend the most time online. The same group that can lead the change,” Kimtai said.
He noted that online trolling has serious mental and emotional consequences, including low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression, which can negatively affect students’ academic performance.
On gendered harassment, Kimtai pointed out that women face disproportionate abuse online due to entrenched social attitudes toward women’s visibility and independence, especially in public life.
He called for greater awareness, accountability, and justice for victims.
“We can make digital peace trend and let online empathy go viral. Behind every username is a human being with feelings,” he added.
The launch featured live entertainment and a panel discussion under the theme “The Real Cost of a Comment,” which explored the psychological, social, and legal impacts of online trolling.
Panelist Alex noted that trolling can lead to anxiety and depression, affecting concentration and academic performance.
Hilda argued that “the harassment law is ineffective, and victims don’t get justice,” calling for stronger protection mechanisms.
Erick added that online abuse has evolved from casual remarks to aggressive criticism, stifling free expression.
Derrick Ouko, a Communications Specialist at Search for Common Ground and a TUM alumnus, encouraged students to use their platforms responsibly.
“Words build worlds. If hate can trend, so can kindness. If trolls can go viral, so can peacebuilders,” Ouko said.
He urged young people to see empathy as a form of strength.
“Scrolling bila troll shows emotional intelligence. Behind every screen is a soul so choose empathy over ego,” he said.
The Scroll Bila Troll campaign urges young people to think before they post, promote empathy online, and stand up against digital hate.
Organisers hope the movement will inspire a culture of digital kindness, where peace, not trolling, becomes the trend.
