Blogs are unique platforms which give regular people the communicative freedom, power and reach that once only belonged to major corporations and the media.
Blogs are unique platforms which give regular people the communicative freedom, power and reach that once only belonged to major corporations and the media.
They are a space where individuals can make their voices heard – with the freedom to express opinions on pretty much anything.
What this freedom of speech means for us as consumers however, is that we cannot and should not take everything we see on the internet at face value – but rather, with a hefty pinch of salt and dollup of discretion.
A recent blogpost on travelstartblog has been causing a stir for its inaccuracy, definitive claims and misrepresentation of African cities – Grahamstown included.
Grahamstown ranks as number 14 on travelstart’s: “15 Best Cities to live in Africa.” (Do you agree? Vote here)
As illustrated by the 96 comments, and 77 000 Facebook shares of this particular blogpost, the majority of concern is with regard to these claims: that these are “the 15 best cities to live in Africa”and all the listed cities have “the warmth of African friendliness and hospitality.”
One asks, what were the criteria used to discern these ranks?
And with approximately 54 countries in Africa, each with multiple cities… how easy is it really to categorise a top 15?
Interestingly, overall it seems that economic factors were one of the most important determinants of the best cities to live in.
This in itself is problematic as capitalism is not everyone’s cup of tea.
Johannesburg is number one because it is the “wealthiest modern [city]in Africa” and is home to “the largest man-made forest”.
Tunis, Tunisia's capital and in at 3rd place is “the second happiest place to live in Africa” apparently. What? Where is the happiest place? It certainly wasn’t listed as Johannesburg.
Surprisingly, Cape Town ranks in 6th place, even though the blog states “every amenity and luxuries that can be found in the most developed metropolitan cities of the world is present in Cape Town.”
Of highest concern to us is number 14: Grahamstown.
The blogpost states “The world famous National Arts Festival which holds [sic]in the city every summer is one of the big appeal of the city.”
We get where you were going with that…
Festival is one of our main attractions, but can we really judge Grahamstown on Festival alone, which is actually in winter (also the general season of the city)?
And let us not forget our persistent water crisis, general infrastructure failure and education crisis.
Oh, but apparently “there is easy access to higher education,” for who?
Members of the public have expressed concern and outrage over the inaccuracy of the list.
The comments speak for themselves:
“I call bullshit on this entire article. There’s no “warmth” here, just elitist racism and classism.” – Venter.
“Confusing ranks! and some cities have also been missed. The accuracy is doubtful!!” – Mr Respect.
When it comes to writing for an organisation that claims to be “Africa's leading and fastest growing online travel agency,” surely there should be some content moderation or sub-editing, at the very least.
In a digital age deluged with information, we need to consume and share with care.
When making your voice heard on the internet, if not for anyone else but yourself, get your facts straight.
Blog address: http://www.travelstart.co.ke/blog/15-best-cities-live-africa/
