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Contribution short abstract:

This paper aims to explore how digital literacy impacts youth-led protest movements in Africa, by examining how online search strategies can be used to empower young activists in mobilizing social change, navigating socio-political challenges, and fostering cross-generational alliances.

Contribution long abstract:

The study seeks to explore how digital literacy influences youth-led protest movements in Africa while focusing on how online search strategies can be used to empower young activists to mobilize social change and challenge systemic inequality. For instance, movements like #ENDSARS in Nigeria and #RejectFinanceBill2024 in Kenya practically show how digital platforms can be used by youths to organize, share information, and forge solidarities across social, and economic landscapes while building intergenerational collaborations.

By analysing the patterns of digital engagements, this study reveals how digital literacy enables young individuals to access, assess, and apply information for collective action while countering misinformation. In addition, it explores how digital competencies help youths navigate complex socio-political environments, articulate alternative futures, and foster intergenerational collaboration in urban social movements, as we have seen in recent times.

The research employs a mixed-methods approach to combine quantitative analysis of digital search behaviours with qualitative insights from youth activists on digital platforms. This approach addresses the challenges of digital literacy in activism as well as issues of digital surveillance, data privacy and the risks of organizing online movements.

The study advocates for robust digital literacy programs and policies that empowers youths to organize movements for driving social change. Moreover, it emphasises the role of digital literacy in fostering inclusivity and intergenerational collaborations for reimagining development and positive change in Africa.