Emerging trends in news consumption in Africa are being reshaped by social media influencers, while serious safety incidents involving journalists highlight the dangers of reporting in volatile environments. Concurrently, a volcanic eruption in Indonesia has raised concerns for hikers defying safety regulations, leading to ongoing search efforts for missing individuals.

Shifting News Consumption in Africa
In South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, a new wave of content creators is transforming how young audiences engage with news. Amahle-Imvelo Jaxa, a South African content creator, gained significant attention through a TikTok video discussing the role of South African peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her rapid rise to prominence reflects a broader trend where traditional news sources are losing traction among younger demographics. According to the 2025 global Digital News Report by the Reuters Institute, 61% of Nigerians and 58% of Kenyans report paying attention to news creators, compared to just 39% in South Africa. Jaxa emphasizes her role as a translator of news rather than a replacement for traditional media, highlighting the importance of credible sources in her content.

Journalists Face Violence in Somalia
In a separate incident, three journalists, including Mohamed Bulbul from the Guardian, were detained and assaulted by Somali police while covering allegations of torture against a woman in prison. The journalists were arrested in Mogadishu and reportedly beaten by members of a counter-terrorism unit. They were released after several hours but their experience underscores the risks faced by reporters in regions with unstable political climates. This incident raises serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Somalia.

Volcanic Eruption in Indonesia
On the Indonesian island of Halmahera, search and rescue operations are ongoing following a volcanic eruption at Mount Dukono. A local woman was found deceased, while two Singaporean hikers remain missing. The eruption, which occurred early on Friday, sent a thick ash column into the atmosphere and prompted local authorities to close all hiking routes to the volcano. Rescue operations, involving over 100 personnel, are being conducted with caution due to the ongoing volcanic activity. Authorities have emphasized the need for compliance with safety regulations, as the national disaster management agency warns of potential legal consequences for those entering restricted areas.

Wrap-up
The evolving landscape of news consumption in Africa highlights the significant role of social media influencers in engaging younger audiences, while the dangerous conditions for journalists in Somalia raise critical questions about press safety. Simultaneously, the volcanic activity in Indonesia serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with outdoor adventures, particularly in regions with active geological threats.

Sources
theguardian.com
theguardian.com
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team