Examining The Influence of Digital Media on Kenya's Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in the Formulation of Foreign Policy
| dc.contributor.author | Nthambi, Mutuku Issabelah | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-01-27T08:04:00Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-01-27T08:04:00Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2024 | |
| dc.description | MASTER OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security | |
| dc.description.abstract | The rapid advancement of digital media has significantly transformed the landscape of foreign policy formulation globally. This study investigated the impact of digital media on Kenya's Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in shaping its foreign policy. Three primary objectives guided this study: first, to analyze the digital media technologies Kenya's MFDA uses in foreign policy formulation; second, to assess the frequency and effectiveness of digital media usage by Kenya's MFDA in diplomatic communications and foreign policy initiatives; and third to evaluate the impact of digital media strategies employed by Kenya's MFDA on public opinion and policy outcomes in foreign affairs. The study is grounded in the theoretical framework of Agenda-Setting Theory, which provides insights into how media influences public perception and policy priorities. A case study research design focused on specific instances of digital media influence. Data were collected through focus group discussions and interviews with key stakeholders, including ministry officials and policy experts. The data collection involved semi-structured interviews to ensure comprehensive coverage of the study’s objectives. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to ensure objective and measurable results. Descriptive statistics such as tables and percentages were used to summarize the data, providing insights into the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs (MFDA) digital media usage patterns. Consequently, triangulation was achieved by cross-referencing these quantitative findings with the qualitative data, ensuring that the study’s conclusions were well-supported by both statistical evidence and narrative insights, thus enhancing the overall reliability and validity of the research. The respondents ranged from senior leadership roles, such as the Head of Public Relations, Head of Digital Marketing, and Chief Press Secretary, to specialized roles like Social Media Coordinator, Content Strategist, and Policy Research Analyst. This diversity in roles underscored the collaborative effort required to manage the MFDA’s digital media presence and its impact on foreign policy. Including creative roles such as Graphic Designer and Creative Director alongside strategic roles like Legislative Liaison and Policy Advocacy Advisor highlighted the ministry's multifaceted approach to integrating digital media into its diplomatic communications. The findings revealed that digital media significantly impacts foreign policy formulation by enhancing communication and engagement with domestic and international audiences. It also facilitated real-time information sharing and public diplomacy. However, the study identified challenges, such as managing digital platforms effectively. Recommendations include improving digital media strategies to mitigate misinformation, enhancing training for officials on digital media use, and integrating digital media insights into policy analysis. The findings highlighted the need for a strategic approach to digital media utilization to maximize its benefits and address associated challenges. This research contributes to understanding digital media’s impact on foreign policy and offers implications for future practice and policy development. | |
| dc.identifier.citation | Nthambi, M. I. (2024). Examining The Influence of Digital Media on Kenya's Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in the Formulation of Foreign Policy. Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://repository.daystar.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6080 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences | |
| dc.subject | Advancement of digital media | |
| dc.subject | Kenya's Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs | |
| dc.subject | Foreign policy formulation | |
| dc.title | Examining The Influence of Digital Media on Kenya's Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in the Formulation of Foreign Policy | |
| dc.type | Thesis |