COVID-19 is a myth to control Africans is false

How widespread is the taboo?

Remember when covid-19 first hit, and some aunties said, “Ah, this thing is only for Western countries. We Africans are too strong for it!”? From Facebook debates to street corner arguments, many believed covid-19 was a myth to control Africans. But if covid was a lie, then why did our own people fall sick and even lose their lives?

Why does this myth exist?

• Mistrust of the West: History has shown that Africa has been taken advantage of, so some assume covid-19 was just another trick.
• Few early cases: In the beginning, fewer Africans got infected, making it easy to dismiss the virus as fake.
• Social media rumors: False information spread rapidly through social media!

What is the impact of the myth?

• Neglect of precautions: People refused masks and vaccines, making the virus spread even more.
• More deaths: Dismissing covid-19 led to unnecessary hospitalizations and loss of lives.
• Misinformation overload: The more myths spread, the harder it became to trust real health advice.

How can we combat the myth?

• Community education: Let’s use market squares, churches, and radio shows to share the truth.
• Personal testimonies: Survivors should tell their stories to show covid is real.
• Challenge fake news: If a WhatsApp message sounds wild, fact-check before sharing.

What is the bottom line?

Covid-19 is real, not a scheme against Africans! Stay safe, follow the science, and don’t fall for every rumour on social media.