Browsing by Author "Nancy Mbaka"

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    Hashtag Activism: Examining #RutoMustGo and #RejectFinanceBill in Showcasing Kenyans on X as an Imagined Community of Language Users
    (Open Access Library Journal, 2024-10-30) Emmanuel Njuki; Nancy Mbaka; Christine Atieno
    This paper explores linguistic features used by Kenyans on X by examining the role of hashtags in showcasing Kenyans on X as an imagined community of language users. #RutoMustGo and #RejectFinanceBill were selected for this study. The paper was guided by the objective to examine linguistic features used by Kenyans on X. This paper used multimodality theory to analyze how different modes of communication—such as texts, images, hashtags and emo- jis—interact to create meaning and shape discourse. It showed how Kenyans on X create social identities by expressing themselves through a variety of se- miotic resources. It helped understand how different modes work together to shape and reflect Kenyans on X social identity. This theory helped to unravel how Kenyans on X form a collective identity through language and hashtag usage. Data was elicited from tweets under the two hashtags and analyzed using content analysis method. Purposive sampling technique was used where only tweets that showed how language used by Kenyans on X help in forming an imagined community of language users were selected for this study. Qualitative research design was used for this paper. A total of 47 tweets were used. Findings revealed that Kenyans on X use a variety of linguistic features that showcase them as a community of language users. Hashtags play an important role in activism and uniting Kenyans on X as a community.
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    The Use of Mock Politeness as a Communicative Strategy by Kenyans on A
    (Open Access Library Journal, 2024-10-21) Emmanuel Njuki; Christine Atieno; Nancy Mbaka
    Kenyans on A function as a community of language users where language is not just a tool of communication, but an instrument for achieving social goals where they use language to navigate social interactions, have fun, critique leaders and assert their social identities. This paper examines the use of mock politeness as a communicative strategy by Kenyans on A. With a focus on their language, the study discusses how mock politeness helps Kenyans on A discuss various social, political and economic issues around this virtual space. Impoliteness theory by [1] Culpeper (1996) helps to analyze how impolite language is used in this virtual space. A qualitative research approach is used in the study as the data is linguistic. Purposive sampling technique was used to select tweets that showed how mock politeness impoliteness strategy was used by Kenyans on A. A guiding card was used to collect and place data collected in various categories. Content analysis method was also used to analyze data that was collected. This research is im- portant as it helps to understand how Kenyan A users employ mock politeness to express themselves and negotiate power dynamics on A. The study sheds light on the communicative practices of Kenyan A users.