Digital public sphere's role in COVID-19 mitigation in Zimbabwe: Government-citizen engagement
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
4-30-2024
Department
Department of Cognitive and Learning Sciences
Abstract
This research investigates the dynamics of government and citizen interaction in Zimbabwe concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular emphasis on the digital public sphere. As technology emerges as a vital player in information dissemination, understanding the balance between official government sources and informal channels is pivotal. Using qualitative interviews, the authors examined the influence of these channels on public perceptions. The results highlighted a lack of trust in the government, reliance on informal networks for counternarratives, and widespread misconceptions about the virus. The study further underscores the significance of tailored communication strategies, considering socio-economic, linguistic, and digital divides. The findings have broad implications for future pandemic response strategies, emphasizing the importance of trust, clarity, and accessibility of information.
Publication Title
Public Health Communication Challenges to Minority and Indigenous Communities
ISBN
[9798369306260, 9798369306246]
Recommended Citation
Hungwe, K.,
Rakatsinzwa, A.,
&
Mukono, F.
(2024).
Digital public sphere's role in COVID-19 mitigation in Zimbabwe: Government-citizen engagement.
Public Health Communication Challenges to Minority and Indigenous Communities, 1-15.
http://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3693-0624-6.ch001
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/michigantech-p2/756