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Doctoral Thesis | Communication or Media Studies | Kenya | Volume 13 Issue 2, February 2024
Influence of Digital Technologies on Diplomatic Practices within the Framework of Food Sovereignty and Continental Policy in Africa
Venter Nkatha Mwongera [2] | Salvatore Fava (Ph. D) | Dr. Sabrina Mazza Ph. D
Abstract: This doctoral thesis intricately explores the influence of digital technologies on diplomatic practices within the framework of food sovereignty and continental policy in Africa. It navigates knowledge exchange, regional cooperation, citizen engagement, and the imperative task of bridging the digital divide. Drawing insights from interviews with various experts such as diplomatic practitioners, policymakers, and food sovereignty experts, augmented by a comprehensive analysis of Twitter data and internet usage patterns, the research unveils the practical implications and challenges entwined with the digital transformation of diplomacy. The findings illuminate the pivotal role of digital diplomacy in cultivating knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing key concepts such as "food sovereignty, " "agricultural innovation, " "technology transfer, " and "sustainable farming. " Leveraging digital platforms emerges as a strategic imperative for policymakers, fostering spaces for informed decision - making and contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity, thereby aligning with international development targets, agreements, and conventions such as the SDGs 2, 13, and 15 on Zero Hunger, Climate Action, and Life on Land besides biodiversity conservation. In addressing challenges, the study proposes recommendations encompassing investments in digital literacy, the establishment of online platforms, and the encouragement of public - private partnerships. These measures collectively empower stakeholders, enhance collaboration, and foster transparent decision - making processes in the agricultural sector. Central to the research is the exploration of regional cooperation and policy coordination facilitated by digital diplomacy. The study reveals the potential of digital platforms to facilitate regional dialogue, policy alignment, and partnerships among diverse actors. Recommendations advocate for dedicated digital platforms, social media utilization, and strategies to enhance regional collaboration, crucial steps toward achieving sustainable agriculture. To achieve the set objectives, this study employed a mixed - methods research methodology. Integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches, the research design incorporated in - depth interviews with various respondents. Purposive sampling and snowballing techniques guided participants' selection, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives from respondents. Data collection instruments included semi - structured interviews, questionnaires, and focused group discussions, enabling a comprehensive exploration of respondents' viewpoints. Ethical considerations underscored voluntary participation, informed consent, and confidentiality, aligning with the ethical standards of Selinus University. Simultaneously, Twitter data analysis was conducted to unravel digital discourse trends. Thematic analysis of qualitative data and content analysis of Twitter data formed the bedrock of data interpretation while maintaining the study's robustness and validity. The seamless integration of ethical guidelines and methodological rigor contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the digital diplomacy landscape in African agricultural governance. Citizen engagement and accountability emerge as fundamental pillars, empowered by digital diplomacy. The study underscores the role of citizens, particularly farmers, in shaping agricultural policies through active participation in online discussions. Recommendations include the development of user - friendly mobile applications and virtual town hall meetings, ensuring citizens play a central role in decision - making processes. Bridging the digital divide becomes a critical imperative to ensure equitable participation in the digital diplomacy landscape. The study outlines strategies to expand internet connectivity, develop mobile - based services, and promote community - based digital initiatives, aiming to enable marginalized communities, small - scale farmers, and women to meaningfully participate in digital diplomacy initiatives.
Keywords: Digital Technology, Diplomacy, Implications, Food Sovereignty, Continental Policy, Africa
Edition: Volume 13 Issue 2, February 2024,
Pages: 1780 - 1785