Debating the Internet: Are Influencers the New Guardians Against Cyberbullying?
By Oudney Patsika, Marketing Director at Sona Solar Zimbabwe
Policymakers are urging Zimbabweans to use social media responsibly as AI transforms online engagement. Recent viral moments — from the Mt Darwin bullying case involving Bybit Ruza to the mocking of Harare Polytechnic graduate Panashe — have sparked national conversations about compassion and cyberbullying. Influencers like Lorraine Guyo have stepped in to support victims, while others such as the Nyathi family, Mai Jeremaya, and DJ Towers have seen their lives dramatically change through public attention.
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| Lorraine Guyo stepped in to help Panashe after she was mocked online. |
Experts, however, warn that not all “digital kindness” is sincere. While Tildah Moyo says Zimbabweans have a genuine desire to uplift others, Molly Chuma notes that some offers of help are thinly veiled marketing strategies. Businessman Tinashe Mutarisi adds that some interventions are driven by rivalry or attention-seeking, while a local pastor cautions that staged victimhood is becoming common. As this trend grows, they urge moderation to avoid fostering dependency, while strongly condemning both cyberbullying and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for online clout.
From Ridicule to Redemption
When Panashe, a Harare Polytechnic graduate, was mocked for her makeup on her big day, social media trolls had a field day. Enter socialite Lorraine Guyo, who publicly defended her, stating: "In today’s world, we often choose to laugh instead of celebrate... You embody empowerment." Guyo offered a full beauty makeover as a token of appreciation, turning a moment of shame into one of celebration.
A distressing video of Bybit Ruza being physically bullied by another student, Precious Ruza, in Mt Darwin sparked national outrage. However, it also catalyzed a massive wave of support. Influencers and well-wishers rallied to offer school fees, counseling, and gifts to Bybit, who was brought to Harare to receive care, while pledges were also made to assist Precious with counseling to address the root causes of the bullying.
Gilbert Nyamanhindi and Joyce Manyara (The Nyathi Family) faced ridicule when they started their content creation journey. Today, they are proud owners of a homestead and cars, thanks to the visibility provided by online benefactors.
Altruism or Marketing Strategy?
Molly Chuma, a renowned grooming coach, questions the motives. "Most people who rush to get hold of these victims are doing it for commercial purposes... It's a marketing strategy," she argued. She questioned why help couldn't be offered discreetly, rather than parading victims on the very platforms where they were bullied.
Businessman Tinashe Mutarisi raised concerns about a developing "begging culture." He noted that some individuals now intentionally seek ridicule to gain sympathy and free gifts. "We now have cliques who will do anything to get public ridicule... this syndrome needs to be stopped," he warned.
A Strategic Perspective: By Oudney Patsika
As a marketer, I see the value in brand association with positive social impact. However, there is a thin line between genuine CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and exploitation. When a brand steps in to help a victim, they gain "social currency"—but if that help is transactional or short-lived, it can backfire.
We must foster a culture where influencers are indeed guardians, but where the dignity of the victim comes before the "likes" of the benefactor. Zimbabwe needs influencers who are responsible digital citizens, not just opportunists chasing the next viral moment.
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