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Contribution short abstract:

This study highlights the Zimbabwean press’s complicity in reinforcing exclusion in corruption reporting through sensationalised reporting. It advocates for inclusive narratives, thematic framing and collaborations with grassroots organisations to advance transformative development.

Contribution long abstract:

Corruption continues to impede development in Zimbabwe and disproportionately affects marginalised communities. Although the media is regarded as a watchdog, its representation of corruption lacks impartiality. This research examines how Zimbabwean newspapers frame corruption, identifying whose voices they amplify and whose they silence. It contributes to discussions regarding the media’s influence on development and emphasises the importance of inclusive narratives in addressing systemic issues.

The study analyses narratives from both state-owned and independent newspapers through content analysis and semi-structured interviews with journalists and editors. Content analysis identifies recurring themes and representations of key actors. Conversely, interviews explore how editorial choices and external influences shape the coverage of corruption.

Findings from the research shows that newspapers typically frame corruption in an episodic manner, concentrating on individual incidents as if they are isolated events. This framing approach sensationalises particular occurrences while neglecting the systemic corruption patterns that disproportionately affect marginalised groups. Consequently, media narratives fail to accurately represent the lived experiences of these communities, further entrenching their exclusion from development discussions.

The paper argues that the media’s neglect of marginalised perspectives weakens its ability to support equitable development. It recommends adoption of thematic framing that contextualises corruption within broader socio-economic structures and highlight systemic issues and the disproportionate impact on marginalised communities. There is need for partnerships between media and grassroots organisations to facilitate the co-production of corruption stories. Also, journalists should embrace inclusive storytelling that foregrounds grassroots experiences and contextualises corruption within wider socio-economic frameworks to promote transformative development.