Mobile phone use in intimate relationships: The case of youth in Botswana

Abstract

Drawing upon qualitative research data of a study I carried out in Gaborone and Francistown, this article attempts to demonstrate that the mobile phone is ubiquitous and cultural technology which has become central to young people’s intimate relationships. In particular, the use of mobile phones in romantic relationships among urban youth in Botswana is evinced in two ways, both of which are clearly local and distinct. First, the mobile phone is useful to facilitate emotional intimacy through voice calls, text messages and social networking, thus serving as a substantial link between intimate partners. Second, through its cost value, the mobile phone is recognised as a perfect gift to express practical intimacy in romantic relationships. This study therefore suggests that, in the way it is used, the mobile phone influences youth to create or recreate mobile cultures, which are to some extent predicated on their traditional lifestyles.