The Effects of social media on youth politics: a case study of Bindura, Zimbabwe

Author

Bakasa, Sherpard

Title

The Effects of social media on youth politics: a case study of Bindura, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study examines the effects of social media on youth politics in Bindura, Zimbabwe. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of social media on youth political participation, engagement and activism. The objectives of the study were to explore the role of social media in shaping youth political attitudes and behaviours, to e xamine the ways in which social media influences youth political participation and to investigate the challenges and opportunities of using social media for youth political engagement. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining both qualitative and q uantitative data collection and analysis methods. A sample size of 50 participants was selected for data collection and analysis. Unstructured interviews and questionnaires were used to extract data from the participants. Participants were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The study revealed that social media has a significant impact on youth political participation, engagement and activism in Bindura. The findings suggest that social media provides a platform for youth to express t heir political opinions, engage with politicians and mobilize for political action. However, the study also highlights the challenges of using social media for youth political engagement, including the spread of misinformation and the risk of online harassment. The study concludes that social media has the potential to enhance youth political participation and engagement, but requires careful management and regulation to ensure its effective use. The study recommends that policymakers and stakeholders prioritize the development of social media literacy programs and online safety protocols to support youth political engagement.

Date

March 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Youth

Political Participation

Social Media

Activism

Supervisor

Dr. Katsinde