Activist Hanifa has strongly condemned the viral “Kijana Kanichukua Kanitengeneza” trend, warning that it risks normalizing and trivializing serious issues such as gender-based violence (GBV). The phrase, which has gained traction on social media, is often used humorously by young women to describe being “taken in” and financially supported, or “transformed,” by a man.Acivist Hanifa Adan shares an audit report of the Sh 30 M raised during the GenZ protests. (swipe)
However, Hanifa argues that beneath the jokes lies a dangerous narrative that glorifies dependency and, in some cases, control. According to her, the trend subtly reinforces harmful power dynamics where men are portrayed as saviors, while women are reduced to passive recipients of care and provision. She cautioned that such messaging can blur the line between genuine support and coercive relationships, which are often at the heart of GBV cases.
Speaking through her online platforms, Hanifa emphasized that language and humor play a powerful role in shaping societal attitudes. “We cannot afford to laugh at things that mirror real-life struggles,” she noted, adding that many survivors of GBV face manipulation disguised as love or assistance. By celebrating narratives where women are “fixed” or “made better” by men, society risks overlooking the importance of independence, consent, and mutual respect in relationships.
The activist further called on influencers and content creators to be more mindful of the messages they amplify. She urged young people to critically examine trends before participating, stressing that not all viral content is harmless.
Her remarks have sparked mixed reactions online, with some netizens agreeing that the trend is problematic, while others dismiss her concerns as an overreaction to harmless entertainment. Nonetheless, Hanifa maintains that conversations around GBV must remain sensitive and intentional, especially in a digital age where trends can quickly shape public perception.
As the debate continues, her stance has reignited discussions about the responsibility of social media users in addressing deeper societal issues hidden beneath viral moments.