From business promotion to entertainment and personal connections social media has emerged as a vital tool, profoundly influencing the lives of citizens as the digital revolution sweeps across Cameroon and other parts of the world
As the digital revolution sweeps across Cameroon, social media has emerged as a vital tool, profoundly influencing the lives of citizens. From business promotion to entertainment and personal connections, the effects of these platforms are far-reaching, offering both opportunities and challenges to Cameroonians navigating this digital age. Tatiana Yanda, a resident of Yaounde, captures the essence of this duality. “Social media is extremely important because it allows people to stay connected and maintain relationships, facilitating globalization,” she shared. For her, social media is more than a communication tool; it is an entertainment hub offering diverse, well-organized content.
However, she recognizes that its impact depends on individual usage. “It has both positive and negative aspects. If used responsibly, we can maximize its benefits and minimize its drawbacks,” Yanda emphasized, highlighting the need for digital literacy. For others, like Manogi Pauline, social media serves a more practical purpose. As a small business owner in Yaounde, Pauline leverages these platforms to advertise her products. “It’s a crucial advertisement platform for my little business,” she said.
However, she also pointed out the economic burden of staying online. “It’s money costly since I constantly have to recharge data.” Beyond business, Pauline finds social media a source of entertainment and connection, though she is concerned about its darker side. “It bullies people a lot,” she remarked, shedding light on the prevalence of cyberbullying in digital spaces.
The broader impact of social media
Social media’s influence on Cameroonians extends beyond personal use. For businesses, it has become a powerful marketing tool, enabling entrepreneurs to reach wider audiences without the high costs of traditional advertising. Additionally, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp have played significant roles in fostering a sense of community, bridging distances, and enabling global interactions.
However, as the country embraces this digital era, challenges remain. Cyber bullying, misinformation, and the high cost of internet access are persistent concerns. These issues highlight the need for a balanced approach to social media usage, where education on responsible practices and measures to curb its negative impacts are prioritized.
