Fourth International Conference on Communication & Media Studies

Abstract

This study examines the use of WhatsApp voice note service by Motsweding FM, a South African radio station broadcasting in Setswana in the promotion of the indigenous language media’s digital public sphere. The study focused on the Resemeletse programme of Motsweding FM and analysed how the programme uses the WhatsApp voice note service. The study is informed by the convergence theory and the diffusion of innovation theory. The study adopted a qualitative approach. The data of the study was gathered using interviews, questionnaires, and observation. The study discovered that the presenter of Resemeletse uses WhatsApp voice note service for audience participation. The study shows that the use of WhatsApp voice note service, for audience participation on Resemeletse enables and promotes the indigenous language media’s digital public sphere.