From Lagos to the World: African Trends That Went Global
Africa isn’t just participating in digital culture—it’s shaping it. From viral hashtags to fashion challenges, African social media users are creating trends that ripple across continents. Driven by mobile-first usage, youthful populations, and cultural dynamism, Africa has become a digital trendsetting powerhouse.
Let’s explore some of the social media trends that were born in Africa but have since taken the world by storm.
1. #JerusalemaDanceChallenge (South Africa)
What began as a fun video by Angolan dancers quickly spiraled into a global sensation. Powered by the infectious beat of Master KG’s Jerusalema, the dance challenge swept across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
It transcended race, religion, and borders—performed by healthcare workers, monks, police officers, and celebrities worldwide.
Impact:
Showcased South African house music globally
Positioned dance as a tool for unity during the pandemic
Boosted tourism interest in South Africa
2. #OgaAtTheTop (Nigeria)
This 2013 interview moment where a government official couldn’t confidently name his agency’s website turned into a viral meme. “My Oga at the Top” became shorthand for bureaucratic confusion and shifting responsibility.
Why it resonated:
It mirrored everyday frustrations with leadership—packed with humor.
Legacy:
Still used today to satirize clueless leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
3. #IfAfricaWasABar (Pan-African)
This 2020 Twitter trend imagined African countries as quirky bar patrons, offering humorous takes on national stereotypes, politics, and culture.
Example:
“Ghana shows up early, dressed nicely, orders water, and lectures everyone about colonialism.”
Why it worked:
It turned geopolitics into accessible, creative content—sparking laughter and pan-African engagement.
4. #CongoIsBleeding (Democratic Republic of Congo)
This 2020 Instagram trend went viral globally as African youth used social media to draw attention to human rights abuses and mineral exploitation in Congo.
Tools Used:
Instagram infographics, Twitter threads, TikTok explainers.
Impact:
Educated millions
Forced mainstream media to cover the crisis
Proved that African youth could shape global narratives
5. #SoroSoke (Nigeria)
During the 2020 #EndSARS movement, this Yoruba phrase meaning “speak up” became a rallying cry for youth-led activism.
Why it mattered:
It captured a generation’s frustration with police brutality, injustice, and silence.
Global Reach:
Used by diasporan communities, civil rights groups, and even in music and art installations.
6. #KenyansOnTwitter (KOT)
KOT is not just a hashtag—it’s a movement. Known for witty responses, strategic trolling, and international clapbacks, Kenyans on Twitter have trended globally on topics ranging from politics to pop culture.
Why they matter:
They turn Twitter into a political and cultural weapon—mobilizing support, sharing news, or calling out injustice in real time.
7. #TryMeOh (Ghana)
Sparked by Ghanaian singer Yaa Jackson, this phrase became viral shorthand for confidence with sass. It's now a regular expression in memes, TikTok voiceovers, and tweets.
What Makes African Social Media Trends Unique?
Linguistic fusion: Trends often mix Pidgin, Swahili, Hausa, French, and local dialects with English.
Vibrant visuals: Fashion, dance, and food are integral to expression.
Cultural ownership: Africans are not copying global trends—they’re originating them.
Social Media as a Mirror
African trends often reflect deeper realities:
Frustrations with governance (#SoroSoke)
Joy and resilience (#Jerusalema)
Identity and pride (#IfAfricaWasABar)
They combine humor with depth, making content both engaging and thought-provoking.
Brand & Influencer Economy
These trends have also birthed digital economies:
Influencers launching fashion lines or music careers
Brands collaborating with creators for campaigns
NGOs using viral content for awareness
Social media isn’t just about vibes—it’s a marketplace of influence.
Final Word
African social media isn’t just catching up with the world—it’s setting the pace. From Lagos slang to Nairobi hashtags and Cape Town dances, African voices are now shaping what’s trending online.
The next global sensation? Chances are, it’s already viral in Africa.
