2023, Vol. 4, Issue 1, Part A
The power of websites in shaping narratives during global health crises: A Study of COVID-19 in Kenya by the US, the UK and China
Author(s): Daniel Oloo Ong’ong’a
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a global health crisis that has affected every aspect of life. The role of governments in communicating information and shaping public perceptions during this crisis has become increasingly important. This study examines how the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and China framed the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya through the use of their websites. The study focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the content of the websites of the US, UK, and China, with a specific emphasis on the information provided on the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies used to frame the crisis. The research found that these countries used a variety of strategies to frame the COVID-19 pandemic, ranging from emphasizing the severity of the crisis to promoting their own public health interventions and emphasizing the importance of global cooperation. The results of the study suggest that the US, the UK, and China used different strategies to frame the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya and that these strategies had varying levels of impact on public perceptions and behavior. For instance, the US was portrayed as a global leader in the fight against the pandemic, the UK as a generous donor of the vaccine, and China as a good example in epidemic prevention, control, and economic recovery. These portrayals were likely intended to shape their image and promote their foreign policies and values to the world. In the case of Kenya, the US positioned the country as a regional leader and supported its efforts to improve border and trade management systems. China framed Kenya as a "brother through thick and thin," suggesting the importance it places on African countries and how it leverages these relationships in its foreign policy. The UK portrayed Kenya as the best model for COVID-19 response, providing best practices for other countries. The study highlights the importance of accurate and trustworthy information in shaping public perceptions during global health crises and provides insights into the strategies used by governments to promote their narratives. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the use of websites as a tool of digital diplomacy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pages: 21-30 | Views: 430 | Downloads: 113
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How to cite this article:
Daniel Oloo Ong’ong’a. The power of websites in shaping narratives during global health crises: A Study of COVID-19 in Kenya by the US, the UK and China. International Journal of Advanced Mass Communication and Journalism. 2023; 4(1): 21-30.
