Stereotypes, coded language on the increase- study

The use of stereotypes and coded language is on the increase, a study shows.

The study conducted by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) reveals that violence would only result if occur when politicians use stereotypes and coded language to incite people.

Moi University lecturer Charles Ong’ondo, who led the research, said most of the stereotypes and expressions were "normal incidents, environmental or socio-cultural expressions".

While some stereotypes and coded language are positive and could be used to build the country, some are unfair generalisations used out of ignorance.

“Stereotypes in their own could not lead to violent conflicts. Conflicts could only occur when used to invoke hate or twisted by politicians for a particular motive.” Dr Ong’ondo said during a workshop at the Stanley Hotel, Nairobi Tuesday.

The conflicts could be sparked by boundary disputes, unresolved issues, inequitable distribution of resources or contested results.

NCIC vice-chairperson Milly Lwanga said “as a nation we have to deal with the symptoms and root cause of the problem".

“The big problem is when elites use stereotypes to incite people against each other. It is difficult to immediately stop referring to people in a certain way.

"Use of stereotypes and coded language will not end immediately. It is not unique for Kenya. People should come together and agree on those that are not acceptable as a decent community, for national unity and for national good,” Ms Lwanga said.

She said negative ethnicity was mainly used by elites when competing for resources.

Urban stereotyping

Dr Ong’ondo said people should look at the context stereotypes and coded language is used to avoid incitement.

He said massive interaction is required between Turkanas and Pokots who view each other as enemies to end their animosity.

Dr Ong’ondo said urban stereotyping appears more “lethal” than those in the villages and that it was finding its way in social media.

Media comedians were accused of thriving on stereotyping and simplicity to excite the audience while hiding under freedom of expression.

Some 1,200 people in 39 counties were interviewed in the study carried over a four-month period prior to the March 4 General Election.

The study found that ethnic groups use code names to identify others and that while some are used positively; others are negative and generate "outright contempt".

The study found that though coded language was seen to evolve, there are some words which can stir ethnic animosity and negative feelings towards target communities.

It showed that most communities in Kenya refer to Kikuyus as “thieves” while the Luos are portrayed as “uncircumcised, children, premature and not fully developed".

The Kambas are identified by many communities as “wizards,” the Luhyas as “cooks and watchmen” and Coastal people as "lazy".

NCIC also found that various groups refer to others as animals, smelly, foolish and bushmen among other offensive terms.

Already, the commission is going round the country collecting views on the use of coded expressions and once a comprehensive report is compiled, it will be sent to various institutions for the formation of policies to enhance cohesiveness and national integration.

Under section 25 (p) of the National and Integration Act of 2008, the commission is mandated to undertake research and studies and make recommendations to the government on any issue relating to ethnic affairs.