This archive report was first published on 13 November 2019.
November 13, 2019, marked a significant milestone for many social media users, but not for Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo. Despite reaching a million followers on Instagram, he remains unimpressed.
According to Madowo, the obsession with likes is a major problem that needs to be addressed. He believes that people should stop idolizing likes, as it creates an impossible standard for most individuals.
As Madowo puts it, 'using either [likes or followers] for validation is unhealthy and dangerous.' He hopes that Instagram will remove likes permanently for everyone around the world.
Instagram's decision to hide likes in the US is a step in the right direction, but Madowo wants to see a more comprehensive solution. He is not alone in his concerns, as many people around the world are struggling with the pressure of social media likes.
Some Kenyan celebrities have been known to buy cars and move to luxurious neighborhoods due to their large social media following. However, this has led to a culture of superficiality, where people prioritize their online image over their real-life well-being.
Madowo's message is clear: social media likes should not be the measure of one's self-worth. He is now an advocate against unhealthy social media pressure and hopes that his voice will inspire others to speak out against this issue.
