By Yinka Olorunwa
Social media emerged as a significant platform in the early 2000s. Long before Facebook became ubiquitous, platforms like Myspace provided users with a space for status updates and casual conversations. In those early days, these platforms were primarily used for reconnecting with old friends and staying in touch with family members spread across different regions. Initially, social media usage was largely confined to users in the United States, but over time, these platforms became available to a global audience. While many people have embraced these tools for communication and sharing, others have misused them. At one point, social media became a channel through which fake news, inflammatory comments, and hateful speech circulated. There were instances of tribal and religious conflicts, making it challenging for platform administrators to manage or discipline disruptive users.
Since the mid-2010s, noticeable changes have taken place on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Many individuals have carved out specific niches for themselves by building dedicated followings and, in some cases, generating income from their online activities. Some have developed loyal audiences through their writing, influencing opinions and even contributing to institutional changes within their communities.
Martin Mukah Kwende, a Cameroon-born expert in finance and leadership, has contributed to shaping conversations in this evolving digital landscape. His long-standing Facebook account, active for over fifteen years, serves as an informal platform where he shares insights on financial freedom, economic prudence, and aspects of his faith. His academic background and professional journey reflect a consistent dedication to positive change and practical education.
Social media—especially Facebook—continues to serve as a tool for individuals to express their perspectives and share knowledge on a wide range of topics. In Africa, financial literacy remains a significant challenge. This issue can be partly attributed to economic constraints and gaps in public education. Efforts by individuals like Dr. Kwende to educate audiences about financial literacy are noteworthy. By sharing his personal experiences and insights, he provides guidance that many find useful. His academic training in management from San Francisco State University, along with his professional experiences, appears to inform his approach to addressing these issues.
In many parts of Africa, while earning money may seem relatively straightforward, sustaining and growing wealth is often much more challenging. Consumers frequently face the pressure to spend on non-essential items, and without clear guidance, it can be difficult to make sound financial decisions. Ultimately, while external advice and mentorship can be valuable, the responsibility for financial decision-making rests with individuals. The guidance provided by experienced voices like Dr. Kwende’s can influence these decisions, but each person must ultimately determine their own course.
It is likely that Dr. Kwende’s early experiences with poverty have played a significant role in shaping his worldview and approach to financial education. He often recalls his childhood in Cameroon, a time when his family struggled to secure enough food. These formative experiences seem to have instilled in him a deep understanding of the challenges many face and a commitment to sharing practical financial advice with his audience.
Over the years, Dr. Kwende has consistently used his Facebook account to share knowledge and offer guidance on financial matters. His long-term commitment to this platform has enabled him to reach a diverse audience, including friends, associates, and followers who value his perspective. His continued activity on social media suggests that he will likely maintain or even increase his level of engagement as he continues to address issues related to financial literacy and economic prudence.
Social media has evolved from a tool for casual communication into a platform that can educate and empower. For many Africans, where financial literacy remains a pressing issue, voices like Dr. Martin Mukah Kwende’s provide practical insights rooted in personal experience and academic rigor. His work on Facebook demonstrates how social media can be used not just for chatting and entertainment, but also as a catalyst for sharing knowledge and fostering informed decision-making in everyday life.