(Farewell Editorial) A Literature Review of the Influence of Social Media and Ethnicity on Political Engagement in Africa: Ghanaian Experience

Abstract

The role of social media in African politics has become increasingly significant, especially in the context of political engagement, activism, and governance. This article explores the impact of social media on political processes across Africa, focusing on its ability to spread information, mobilize citizens, and influence elections. Through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp, social media has democratized political discourse, providing citizens with new avenues for participating in the political process. The article further examines how social media intersects with ethnic politics in Africa, where ethnic identities often shape political behaviour and power dynamics. While social media has the potential to foster political engagement and reduce ethnic tensions, it also presents challenges such as the spread of misinformation, political polarization, and digital inequality. The rapid dissemination of fake news, especially during election periods, can exacerbate conflicts and undermine democratic processes. Moreover, the digital divide in many African countries limits access to social media, particularly in rural areas, hindering its potential to promote inclusive political participation. Despite these challenges, social media remains a powerful tool for enhancing democratic governance in Africa. This paper concludes by discussing the implications of social media for politicians and academics, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate risks while harnessing its potential to strengthen democratic institutions and promote socio-political stability across the continent.