The Role of Social Media in Future Elections in the 21st Century Africa

Abstract

This paper looks at the role of social media, a new technology based on web. 2.0 revolution, in future elections in 21^st century Africa. Using descriptive research method, the paper contends that much could be achieved in applying the social media in future elections in the 21^st century Africa. To establish a balance, the study equally looks at the prospects and problems of social media usage in elections in Africa. Based on available evidence from the materials reviewed, the paper concludes that much credibility has been sustained in current elections in Africa through the aid of social media as all election related events are followed up through citizen journalism, in which youth activism has in no small measure enhanced. Based on this, it was recommended that more citizens should be provided access to the internet.

Key words: Africa, Democracy, Elections and Social Media.