Zimbabwean News Media’s Framing of Coal-Fired Power Plants

Abstract

Even though there is widespread consensus on phasing out coal, some countries continue investing in it. A notable example is Zimbabwe, which embarked on a project to expand the Hwange Thermal Power Station from 2018 to 2023. Proponents of coal downplay its adverse impacts, and emphasise its perceived role in boosting economic growth. This article examines how Zimbabwe’s leading daily newspapers, The Herald and NewsDay, framed the expansion of the Hwange Thermal Power Station. The focus is on the news media because of their fundamental role in shaping public opinion and influencing policymaking. The findings reveal how the two publications discuss the impact of the power station’s expansion, monitor its progress, and politicise the undertaking. While both publications omit the adverse environmental and health impacts of coal, they differ in their framing. The findings underscore the urgent need for responsible journalism to ensure that the public fully understands the adverse impacts of coal.