Role of Facebook in Promoting the Welfare of Low- Income Single Mothers: The Case of Dodoma City, Tanzania.

Sungura, Catherine S. (2025) Role of Facebook in Promoting the Welfare of Low- Income Single Mothers: The Case of Dodoma City, Tanzania. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of Facebook in promoting the welfare of low-income single mothers in Dodoma city. The objectives were to explore the accessibility to Facebook in promoting the welfare of single mothers, explore the influence of Facebook on promoting the welfare of single mothers, and to identify the challenges single mothers face while using Facebook. The study was guided by Agenda Setting Theory which establishes that people acquire cues to the relative importance of various topics based on the emphasis given to them in media. The study used quantitative approach and cross-sectional survey design where questionnaires were used to collect primary data. The sampling technique used was simple random sampling. In addition, the study targeted single mothers as population from Dodoma city. The sample size was calculated by using Raosoft online calculator and it estimated 174 single mothers however only 171 questionnaires returned. The findings of the study identified key factors affecting their online engagement, including internet access, reliability, affordability, and digital literacy. Only 11% had stable internet connections, with 96% relying on mobile data, highlighting significant connectivity challenges. Despite this, 98% used the internet daily, and 75% felt confident navigating Facebook, though some required assistance, indicating a need for community training. The influence of Facebook on these mothers was notable, as 73% of daily users felt more socially connected, and 70% found job opportunities through the platform, demonstrating its role in enhancing social support and economic welfare. Keywords: Facebook, welfare of low-income single mothers, Dodoma City

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