Award-winning Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy has spoken out strongly against the growing culture of online trolling, describing social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, as a space where negativity is increasingly being normalised.
The dancehall artiste made the remarks on January 4 while responding to a question from 1957 Media during the ongoing Africa Prosperity Dialogues in Accra, a high-level forum focused on economic growth, innovation, and Africa’s future development.
According to Stonebwoy, while social media has the power to connect people and amplify positive ideas, it has also become a breeding ground for toxic behaviour, particularly through deliberate trolling and online harassment.
“I’m not scared or afraid of trolls. People get to use X as a garbage dump, where they come to express all their negativity,” he stated.
Stonebwoy explained that intentionally engaging with trolls rarely produces meaningful conversations or constructive outcomes. Instead, he believes such interactions often fuel further hostility and distraction.
“I don’t trust that being intentional about trolls will take us anywhere,” he added, emphasising that focusing energy on negativity detracts from productivity, creativity, and personal growth.
The award-winning musician, known for his strong presence both online and offline, has often been the subject of intense social media discussions, praise, and criticism. However, he maintains that remaining focused on purpose and impact is more important than reacting to every online provocation.
Stonebwoy’s comments have reignited broader conversations about toxic behaviour on social media and the responsibility of users to engage respectfully, particularly in spaces that influence public opinion.
Many observers argue that social media platforms, including X, have increasingly become arenas for cyberbullying, misinformation, and hostility, especially toward public figures, creatives, and opinion leaders.
Digital analysts note that the anonymity and fast-paced nature of online platforms often encourage extreme expressions that would rarely occur in face-to-face interactions. This, they say, has contributed to a culture where insults and trolling are rewarded with attention and engagement.
Stonebwoy’s remarks also highlight concerns about the mental and emotional toll that online trolling can have on public figures. Musicians, actors, journalists, and politicians frequently face intense scrutiny and abuse online, sometimes with serious psychological consequences.
Advocates for healthier digital spaces continue to call for stronger moderation policies, digital literacy education, and personal accountability among users.
While Stonebwoy did not call for censorship, his message underscored the importance of using social media platforms more responsibly and intentionally.
His stance reflects a growing sentiment among African creatives who believe that digital platforms should be used to promote dialogue, creativity, and progress rather than hostility and division.
As conversations around online behaviour continue to evolve, Stonebwoy’s comments serve as a reminder that while social media is a powerful tool, how it is used ultimately determines its impact on individuals and society as a whole.Stonebwoy Slams Online Trolling, Calls X a “Garbage Dump” for Negativity
