Optimizing social media influencers for health communication in Africa
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 19529630 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Hannah Simba (0000-0003-3429-2585, African Population and Health Research Center, corresponding author), Eshetu Girma (0000-0002-9418-1775, African Population and Health Research Center) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 18 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Pages | 2572009-2572009 |
| Publication date | 2025-12-31 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Global Health Action (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1654-9716 • E-ISSN: 1654-9880 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/16549716.2025.2572009 |
| PMID | 41084403 |
| OpenAlex | W4415139799 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 2 |
| References cited | 41 |
The rise of social media has transformed communication, allowing social media influencers to shape opinions and behaviors with unprecedented reach and engagement. In Africa, where traditional health campaigns often struggle to gain traction, social media influencers have the potential to provide a complementary platform and a unique avenue to engage young and targeted audiences, further enhancing the reach and impact of health information. This paper explores the role of influencers in health communication, highlighting their ability to drive trust, engagement, and behavioral change. Drawing on global and African case studies, it highlights the successes of influencer-led health campaigns, such as those promoting vaccinations and mental health awareness. While influencer-driven messaging has great potential, challenges such as misinformation, commercialization, and credibility concerns must be addressed. By strategically utilizing social media influencers, public health initiatives can enhance health literacy, overcome accessibility barriers, and drive positive health outcomes in Africa
Credibility · Health communication · Health promotion · Influencer marketing · Public health · Social media · Child Development and Digital Technology · Impact of Technology on Adolescents · Social Media and Politics · Health Policy
The disaster of misinformation
Social Media and Mental Health
The influence of social networking sites on health behavior change
Social Media Use for Health Purposes
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| Citations per year | 2 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |