Demystification of genetic engineering issues by the Kenyan Media

Abstract

This research analyses and highlights how the Nation newspaper demystified the issue of genetic engineering to its readers through its coverage. The analysis looked at various variables, namely: • placement of stories • space allocated to the stories • slant given • simplicity or technicality of the language used • sources of the stories • frequency .. • the category of the stories carried • the use of illustrations and photographs A thorough content analysis of 181 editions (including the Daily, Saturday and Sunday Nation) published during the first six months (January - June) of the year 2001 indicated that genetic engineering has not been adequately demystified to Kenyan readers. The research, therefore, concludes that Kenyan readers do not have adequate information to contribute to any debate surrounding the genetic engineering issue. It therefore recommends that the Kenyan media should improve on their coverage in terms of increasing frequency and space allocated, giving the issue a local interpretation, and empowering its journalists through training to be,able to. cover the .issue competently and adequately.