By Jack Ohito, DevReporter, Siaya County
“One message almost caused chaos,” said Robert Otieno, a trader.
In Siaya County, social media is changing how residents share information, raise concerns and demand action. Platforms such as Facebook, X, WhatsApp, blogs and online pages allow people to receive updates quickly and question leaders about development projects.
“Social media has always done a tremendous job of holding our duty bearers accountable. However, when it is misused, it can be used to spread false information,” says a trader who was once a victim.
Constitutional Backing for Digital Citizen Participation
The Constitution of Kenya protects this growing form of citizen participation. Article 33 guarantees freedom of expression, Article 34 protects media independence, Article 35 provides access to information held by the State, while Article 10 recognises public participation, transparency and accountability. These provisions align with Kenya Vision 2030, which promotes a people-centred and accountable democratic system.
Smartphones as Tools for Local Accountability
For many residents, a smartphone has become a tool for documenting problems and attracting attention from authorities.
“We started discussing the poor condition of our market in a WhatsApp group and later shared pictures on Facebook. The posts attracted the attention of local leaders, and the issue of improving the market was eventually taken up,” says Mr Timothy Opiyo.
The Reuters Institute’s Digital News Report 2026, says that social media is central to Kenya’s news ecosystem, with WhatsApp playing a major role in circulating political information and rumours.
“A post on WhatsApp at midnight can go viral to an extent of disrupting programmes in the morning. That’s how serious social media is,” says Otieno, a market official in Siaya.
In Siaya, this has created a new public space. A damaged road can be photographed and shared within minutes, while a stalled project can quickly attract public attention.
Social media’s influence was also evident in discussions surrounding St Peter’s Cathedral in Siaya. Archbishop Mark Haung Ngau of Maseno West Anglican Church, expressed concern over claims circulating online.
“I would rather face the heat now, as some are claiming on social media that our church is a cash cow, than leave structural problems that might claim believers’ lives,” says Archbishop Mark.
Expanding Public Participation Beyond Physical Meetings
Digital platforms have also strengthened public participation. Young people and residents in remote areas can discuss budgets, legislation and service delivery without attending every public meeting.
A 2019 pilot study by Africa’s Voices Foundation and the Centre of Governance and Human Rights, used interactive radio to connect Siaya residents with county authorities. In four weeks, 2,296 people sent 5,490 messages on governance, development and public services.
The Danger of Misinformation and False Rumours
However, the speed of digital communication also creates risks. The Reuters Institute reports that 59% of surveyed Kenyans consider online influencers a major source of false or misleading information.
Mercy Angela, a Siaya resident, warns that unverified information can put young people in trouble, particularly when rumours are presented as facts.
This was evident when a Facebook page falsely claimed that a housing project had been cancelled and market traders would soon be evicted. The claim spread through WhatsApp groups, causing anxiety. County officials later clarified that construction was continuing and no eviction notice existed.
The Need for Fact Verification and Responsible Usage
“I believe that before I publish a story about a stalled project, I should first of all verify the facts from different sources. I would visit the site, talk to residents, check records and contact authorities for response,” says blogger Emmanuel Ouma.
For Siaya, digital media has become a powerful tool for accountability and development. Its impact, however, depends on responsible use. Verifying information before sharing can ensure that social media posts do more than create debate; they can help turn citizens’ concerns into action.
Radio Baraza 