Hanifa: Why we backed off Gen Z demonstrations

Hanifa Adan, who became popular during the recent Gen Z demonstrations has explained why the protests ended.

Speaking during the second day of the Digital Media Africa Conference on Thursday, Hanifa said they took a step back to protect people’s businesses which were at risk.

"We had to protect these businesses because if they were destroyed, then it would beat the logic of why we were demonstrating," she said.

She highlighted that the demonstrations were not only about Gen Z but they were also advocating for the welfare of the business owners.

"People were also being killed. That too made us step back. There were also reports of hired goons. So that's what happened," she said.

Hanifa was among the panelists who spoke on the topic of how traditional media covered the Gen Z protests.

She also asked journalists to remain credible and independent in their professional duties.

She applauded journalists for the good coverage of the Gen Z demonstrations which kept the public abreast. Hanifa however said that after some few days, the coverage went down.

"We need an independent and credible media. You may be shaken, but we need you to stay strong," she said.

She added: "The digital media didn't do so well because of some of the headlines they were writing in their stories. The Gen Z were more interested in reading the newspapers."

She also acknowledged that 'greeting' politicians, a slogan used by Gen Z for sharing the contacts of leaders helped them to air out the grievances that were affecting them.

"The idea was borne out of the Gen Z movement. Some politicians were graceful enough to respond to the messages they received from their constituents," said Hanifa.