HARNESSING DIGITAL PLATFORMS: SOCIAL MEDIA'S INFLUENCE ON YOUTH CIVIC INVOLVEMENT IN GHANA

Abstract

Civic participation serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance, encompassing diverse activities aimed at addressing communal challenges and influencing governmental actions. This study delves into the nexus between social media usage among youth and their offline engagement in civic activities within Tanzania during non-election periods. Drawing on insights from Barrett and Brunton-Smith (2014), Verba et al. (1978), Nah and Yamamoto (2017), and Gil de Zuniga et al. (2016), the research underscores the transformative potential of civic participation in nurturing collective identity, mutual respect, and social responsibility—foundational elements of a vibrant civil society. By exploring the role of social media platforms as facilitators of youth civic engagement, the study illuminates the dynamics shaping contemporary civic activism and its implications for democratic governance. Through empirical analysis and theoretical frameworks, the research elucidates the mechanisms through which social media usage influences offline civic participation among Tanzanian youth, offering valuable insights into the evolving landscape of civic engagement in non-election contexts.