City Research Online

Abstract

The centrality of information in statecraft and geopolitical and ideological competitions makes information warfare a preoccupation of several state and non-state actors. Advances in communications technologies enhance its universality and prominence in cyberspace. Africa is experiencing this in many ways, with the relentless targeting of its populations on multiple fronts by various actors. This chapter examines the nature and impact of cyber-enabled information campaigns in Africa. It looks at the factors that fuel the rapid rise of the phenomenon, the forces driving it, and the directions it takes. Document analysis and media investigations show that foreign powers such as Russia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), domestic governments and violent extremist groups are the key sponsors of the campaigns while Western social media platforms are among the main tools of perpetrating them. Drawing on Philip Taylor’s ‘munitions of the mind’ model as a conceptual framework and analyzing documents, social media and online content, the chapter highlights the patterns and consequences of cyber-enabled information operations in Africa.

Publication Type:	Book Section
Additional Information:	© 2026 De Gruyter, All Rights Reserved. This is the accepted manuscript of an article published by De Gruyter. Please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions for information on re-use.
Subjects:	J Political Science > JA Political science (General) T Technology > T Technology (General)
Departments:	School of Communication & Creativity School of Communication & Creativity > Department of Journalism
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

Export

Downloads