| Abstract: |
The study dealt with the role of oramedia as a tool for
indigenous communication such as folk songs, drama,
storytelling, and traditional dances in mobilisng women for
community development during August Meetings in Southeast
Nigeria. A mixed-method research design was employed, the
study integrated quantitative survey data from 270 women
leaders chosen from a population of 2770 across Abia,
Anambra, Ebonyi, and Enugu States with qualitative insights
from 24 purposively selected in-depth interviews. Findings
indicate that performance-based oramedia, particularly
traditional dance, folk songs, and folk drama, remains the
dominant and most effective tool for mobilization. Oramedia
effectively conveys development messages on health,
sanitation, unity, peacebuilding, and economic empowerment,
translating complex information into culturally resonant,
emotionally engaging, and actionable forms. However,
declining participation among younger women, attributed to
generational shifts toward digital media, emerged as the most
significant challenge affecting its impact. The study used
Participatory Communication Theory, to highlight its capacity
to foster dialogue, collective action, and community
ownership. The findings noted the continued relevance of
culturally grounded communication strategies while
emphasising the need for strategic adaptation, integration with
digital platforms, performer capacity building, and resource
support. The study contributed to development communication
scholarship by demonstrating that oramedia is both functional
and adaptable, capable of sustaining women-led mobilisation
in evolving socio-cultural and technological contexts. |
