Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Digital Journalism (MADJ)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Joyce Omwoha
Second Supervisor/Advisor
Anne Gachiri
Department
Graduate School of Media and Communications
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the use of satire through TikTok and X networking sites as dialogue tools, specifically for political activism in Uganda. The study looked at the two communication platforms as avenues of expanding the civic space for the citizens, in a country faced with a lot of restrictions for legacy media and traditional online platforms. The study is significant because it analyzes how social media platforms can be used for political activism in a country like Uganda, ruled by stringent rules regarding speaking to power. The method of study was an exploratory study design and the qualitative methods approach, employing qualitative content analysis, discourse analysis and key informant interviews, to analyse satire during the #KampalaPotholeExhibition. The study analysed X posts, TikTok videos, photos, and text to make sense of the phenomenon. Findings of the study show that many satirical tools are used on TikTok and X by political activists; that X is influential in promoting satirical content produced on TikTok; and that this cross-platformization effectively holds leaders accountable. The study concludes that the use of social networking sites for political activism and accountable leadership through satire is prevalent in Uganda, and is influential in opening the civic space. The study recommends that the civic space be protected and promoted through different means, including laws and digital protest mechanisms; like proper sensitization of the citizenry.
Recommended Citation
Shemei Agabo (2024) Digital activism through humour and satire: an analysis of the use of TikTok and X for political accountability in Uganda (Unpublished Masers Thesis). Aga Khan University, East Africa - Graduate School of Media and Communications.