Digitalization and Journalism: The impact of social media and Citizen journalism on the Malian media scene[La digitalisation et le journalisme : L'impact des réseaux sociaux et du journalisme citoyen sur la scène médiatique malienne]

The digital transformation in Mali has revolutionized journalism and political communication, marked by the increasing adoption of social networks and the emergence of citizen journalism, thereby redefining the national media landscape. Utilizing a mixed methodology combining qualitative and quantitative analyses, our research involved 120 participants selected through a quota method. The qualitative analysis was enriched by semi-structured interviews with media professionals and a thorough review of the literature, while the quantitative approach relied on data collected from digital platforms. The results reveal that despite social division and political volatility, digitalization offers unprecedented opportunities for civic engagement and diversifying voices in the public space. However, journalistic training in Mali faces significant challenges in adapting to new technologies. The study underscores the need to adapt educational policies and programs to digital realities to strengthen journalistic capabilities and promote participatory democracy.