Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has issued a stern warning to Kenyan youth over careless use of social media, saying their digital behavior could block them from securing international opportunities.
Speaking at the funeral of Mzee Aggrey Luseno in Sabatia, Mudavadi—who also heads the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs docket—revealed that embassies and global employers are increasingly vetting individuals based on their online presence.
“The internet never forgets,” he said. “If you’re careless or insulting people online, that post could be the reason your visa is denied or your job application is rejected.”
Mudavadi singled out the United States, which now requires visa applicants to disclose all social media handles used in the past five years—a policy aimed at identifying potential security threats and validating application information.
“This is not science fiction. It is happening now. The US and other countries will follow suit in tracking your digital footprint,” he warned.
He also noted that employers—both within Kenya and abroad—are silently monitoring social media behavior before hiring, even if they don’t make it public.
“You may never know why you didn’t get the job. Sometimes, it’s what you posted at 2am last year. Employers are watching,” he said.
Mudavadi urged young Kenyans to see their online platforms not just as entertainment spaces but as personal brands that reflect their values and professionalism.
“We may be shooting ourselves in the foot without knowing. Let us be responsible. Don’t let a moment of rage or clout-chasing online ruin your future,” he advised.
