Print media coverage of gender based violence in Kenya

Abstract

The study looks at the role mass media plays in not only creating awareness but also educating the masses on gender-based violence. Mass media communications reach and influence large numbers of people, and they have the potential to play a positive role in the struggle against violence. Print media plays an important role in the society by creating awareness on all issues and thus priming and agenda-setting of these articles is crucial in bringing to the fore issues that society needs to deal with. The study was guided by two theories; the priming and agenda setting. The data for the study was collected through a content analysis of the Daily Nation for a period of one year from January 1 to December 31, 2013. The themes and priming of these articles were identified. The results indicated that are ten types of Gender based Violence as reported during the period of analysis. The articles given the most prominence were on physical violence and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) while those that occupied the smallest space were on rape, child abuse, physical violence, and FGM and which appeared under letters to the Editor and on News. From the findings, there is need for the Kenyan journalist to be part of the solutions in the fight against GBV. While news can, and often does, offer in-depth and informative coverage of issues, strategies need to be developed to encourage journalists to incorporate more context and analysis when reporting violence against women.