Coverage of Encroachment of Water Bodies in the Daily Graphic and the Chronicle (Jan - Dec 2014 Editions)

Abstract

The study examined the Daily Graphic and the Chronicle's coverage of encroachment of water bodies. The objectives were to ascertain the frequency and prominence given to such news as well as finally make suggestions based on findings. Thus, the quantitative research technique of content analysis was employed in the achievement of these objectives. Results of the study showed that, the total number of times the Daily Graphic published stories on encroachment of water bodies out of their 317 publication was 57. The Chronicle also published 17 stories out of the 317 publications. On the issue of prominence, the Daily Graphic published most of its stories on encroachment of water bodies on other pages whereas the Chronicle published most of its stories on the center page. For instance, the Chronicle recorded 56.25% on stories published on its center pages whilst the Daily Graphic recorded 55.2% for stories published on the other pages. This clearly shows that both newspapers can improve their coverage of encroachment of water bodies by giving it adequate prominence and frequency. It is important for the press to attach pictures (illustrations) to their stories in order to affect the emotions of the people and motivate them to take an action or look at the issues seriously. Again it is important for the press to make follow ups on such stories to ensure actions are being taken to curb this menace in our society.