Since Zimbabwe reported its first case of (COVID-19) in March 2020, the country, like the rest of the world, slid into a health crisis. The pandemic tested not only public health systems but also the integrity and responsiveness of media institutions. In this article, we undertake a reception analysis of the coverage of COVID-19 in two ideologically distinct newspapers, Chronicle and NewsDay , during the height of the pandemic. Drawing on reception theory and in-depth interviews with Bulawayo residents, the research explores whether audiences perceived the coverage as consistently accurate, complete, balanced and ethically responsible. Findings indicate widespread dissatisfaction due to the politicization of the pandemic, hence the need for a robust revisiting of health journalism principles. The study highlights the need for more empathetic, accountable journalism in crisis contexts.
Ndlovu et al. (Wed,) studied this question.
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