Journal of Mass Communication & Journalism

The Portrait of Family Size in the Hausa Home Videos: Culture o r Economy?

Abstract

Sarki ZM

Traditional Hausa family is typically large. Film is a medium through which ideas and beliefs can be transmitted. It therefore serves as a mirror through which one can view the contents of a certain culture. The Hausa home videos industry came to presumably present and preserve the Hausa culture. As an industry it is thus for economic benefits and Hausa cultural representation. However, there have been arguments especially by the Hausa cultural enthusiasts that the players in the industry have always produce for the economic gains, while misrepresenting the Hausa culture. The aim of this study was to see whether or not there is a balance between ensuring economic benefits and Hausa cultural representation, specifically large family size, in the Hausa home videos. Content analysis was used. Twenty home videos were randomly selected and reviewed. It was found that most of the home videos do not represent the culture, specifically Hausa family size, and economy equitably in their contents. Hence, the players in the industry should ensure balance of interests’ representation in the home videos they produce. And, this could be achieved through the mechanisms of censorship boards and various associations within the industry.