Get verified news and tips straight to WhatsApp — subscribe for free!

A weekly guide to spotting, understanding and stopping viral misinformation

We’re seeing a rise in “natural cure” videos targeting intimate health concerns. One viral clip claims that a mix of 🍋 lemon, water and sugar can stop a burning sensation during urination in minutes.

Why is this claim spreading? These type of claims travel fast because they promise fast relief, use familiar ingredients and target symptoms many people may feel uncomfortable talking about openly.

What does the science say? While some citrus compounds have shown antibacterial effects in laboratory studies, there isn't reliable evidence that lemon-based remedies treat urinary tract infections in people.

Why should I care? Relying on home remedies can mask symptoms and delay proper medical diagnosis — especially when the symptoms may be a signal of something more serious.

What to do instead: If you experience burning when urinating:

• Don’t rely on viral remedies
• Seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis
• Get help urgently if symptoms persist or worsen

A viral remedy can’t replace a diagnosis.

A roundup of some of the most popular but completely untrue stories and visuals of the week. None of these are legit, despite being widely shared.  

FALSE: Social media posts claim that Zandile Dabula, president of Operation Dudula, an anti-migrant group in South Africa associated with violence, has officially resigned. This is false. The videos and images circulating as 'proof' of Dabula’s announcement are fakes.

FALSE: There is no scientific evidence that a mixture of onion, cloves, bay leaves and cinnamon can cure hypertension. Always seek verified medical advice.

FALSE: Social media claims that a mixture of cayenne pepper, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar can cure nerve pain or mood disorders such as depression are not supported by credible evidence.

MISSING CONTEXT: Claims that liquids from the nhundurwa fruit – inhaled, bathed in or applied vaginally – can treat various health conditions such as toothache and itching have been shared widely. While the fruit has a history of use in traditional medicine, most of these recommendations are not supported by medical research.

SCAM: Retailer Studio 88 is not hiring part-time workers or trainees via Facebook inbox messages or unverified links. Posts claiming otherwise are likely scams.

SCAM: An advert claiming that the beverage giant Coca Cola is hiring dozens of workers through a Google Forms link is fake. The form collects sensitive personal details and demands a “processing fee”  – clear warning signs of a scam.

Kenya 🇰🇪

FAKE: No, Kenyan research firm Infotrak hasn't released an opinion poll ranking popularity in Bomet county. While the claim may appear minor in isolation, it could signal a broader trend during upcoming campaigns.

FAKE: A graphic circulating on Facebook claims that former Kenyan deputy president Rigathi Gachagua rebuked environmentalist Truphena Muthoni for meeting president William Ruto. But there is no evidence that Gachagua made such remarks.

SCAM: This Facebook page promises users thousands of Kenyan shillings in the name of M-Kopa, an asset finance company. The page, however, is an impostor designed to defraud the public.

SCAM: Another Facebook page uses the name and logo of Watu – a well known asset finance company operating in Kenya – to offer Kenyans new and used motorbikes on credit. Do not fall for these fraudulent offers.

Nigeria 🇳🇬

FALSE: Claims that former Nigerian vice president Atiku Abubakar promised to release Biafra separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu and consider granting Biafra independence if elected president in 2027are not supported by evidence.

FALSE: A viral video appearing to show Sheikh Gumi, a popular Nigerian Islamic cleric, saying the government should give bandits whatever they want and include them in the national budget is manipulated. In the original 2021 interview, Gumi makes no such remarks.

FALSE: Posts claiming that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation has uncovered $900 million in cash, cars, a mansion and a gold vault belonging to Aisha Buhari, Nigeria’s former first lady, are false. 

FAKE: Nigeria’s electoral commission has warned the public to ignore a fake timetable in circulation, saying the official schedule will be published only on its verified platforms. 

Who checks the facts? "Behind the Facts" interviews the fact-checkers fighting misinformation.

While we might still be easing into the new year – misinformation isn’t.

Got a question you want answered or looking for specific information on Africa? Head to our Info Finder tool.

Explore key facts with Africa Check’s Info Finder.

Love this newsletter? Please take a moment to forward it to your friends or family, or they can subscribe here.

Thanks for reading!

Your weekly dose of facts in newsletter form is created by Laura Kapelari (@laurakapelari). It is edited by Lee Mwiti (@LMAfrican) and Cayley Clifford (@cayleyclifford).