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This dissertation reports the findings of the assessment of the impact of virtual diplomacy tools on the conduct of diplomacy in Tanzania. Specifically, the study examined the status of diplomacy conduct in the study area, identified the dominant virtual diplomacy tools, and assessed the impact of virtual diplomacy tools on the conduct of diplomacy. Dar es Salaam and Dodoma cities were selected to be the study areas. A cross-sectional research design was adopted coupled with purposive sampling technique were used so to obtain data. Primary data were obtained through survey questionnaire tool and interview guide. Quantitative data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) while the qualitative were analyzed through thematic analysis focusing on themes and content. The findings revealed that both offline and virtual diplomacy tools are used in conducting diplomacy and in accessing diplomatic services. Twitter and Facebook tools of VD were found to be dominant. Further analysis revealed that VD tools do not minimize the importance of conventional diplomacy but offer new ways of communication. The study concludes that VD share diplomatic opportunities, and serve the aim of achieving foreign policy goals; therefore, they complement conventional diplomacy. Lastly, the study recommends that URT has to conduct capacity building training on VD tools, installation, and maintenance of wireless technology infrastructure, and give preference to hybrid conduct of diplomacy, secure information systems, and identify and recruit digital champions. |
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