EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT AMONG KENYAN YOUTH: A COMPARATIVE STUDY ACROSS URBAN AND RURAL AREAS
Abstract
Purpose of Study: This study aimed at exploring the influence of social media on political engagement among Kenyan youth, with a focus on understanding differences across urban and rural areas.
Statement of the Problem: In the context of an evolving digital landscape, there is a critical need to understand how social media platforms influence political engagement among youth, particularly in diverse urban and rural settings in Kenya. The study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding the extent of social media's impact on political participation, awareness, and the challenges faced by youth in these areas.
Methodology: The study was guided by a positivist research philosophy and employed a desktop review design to analyze existing literature, providing insights into the role of social media in political discourse.The research employed a comprehensive desktop review approach, systematically analyzing literature from various academic databases and reputable sources. The study focused on the intersection of social media use, political engagement, and youth demographics in Kenya. It involved screening and assessing relevant studies to understand the dynamics of social media's influence on the political engagement of Kenyan youth in both urban and rural contexts.
Result: The findings highlighted that social media platforms are instrumental in disseminating political information, enabling civic participation, and contributing to political polarization among Kenyan youth. The study revealed significant disparities in political engagement between urban and rural youth, influenced by factors such as internet access and digital literacy. It was found that urban youth have a higher degree of engagement in political discourse through social media compared to their rural counterparts.
Conclusion: The study concludes that social media is a critical tool for political mobilization and engagement among Kenyan youth, with its impact varying considerably between urban and rural areas. The research identified key challenges such as misinformation, fear of victimization, and the digital divide as barriers to the effective use of social media in political engagement.
Recommendation: The study recommends enhancing digital literacy, bridging the urban-rural digital divide, creating safer online environments, and leveraging social media for more effective political communication and participation among Kenyan youth. It calls for a multi-faceted approach involving technological advancement, educational reforms, and policy interventions to ensure equitable and effective political participation across different demographics.
Keywords: Social Media, Political Engagement, Kenyan Youth, Urban and Rural Areas, Comparative Study
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