CHALLENGES FACING USHAHIDI PLATFORM AS A PROACTIVE ACTOR IN CONFLICT PREVENTION IN KENYA SINCE 2007
Dr. Njeru Abraham Kirea - Multimedia University of Kenya, Kenya
Dr. Bernard Malakwen - Moi University, Kenya
ABSTRACT
The main aim of this study was to find out challenges facing Ushahidi platform as a proactive actor in conflict prevention in Kenya since 2007. The paradigm that was found suitable for this study is Pragmatism. The research method was a correlational design utilizing cross-sectional survey methodology and included a number of survey instruments. Interviews, focus groups, and an examination of the Ushahidi platform's content were all used to gather data for this investigation. The researcher used coding and matrix construction to carefully arrange the data acquired in order to provide structure, order, and explanation. Once all the data was categorized, it was compared and contrasted to the literature review. Using social media as a conflict-prevention tool, the research found that the absence of ethical standards and professionalism for users is a key weakness. Because it is so liberal, it may be used to disseminate misinformation and inaccurate facts that might harm peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Some users have already begun to doubt the reliability of the information that is shared on social media as a result of this.