Framing Day Zero: Peace Journalism and the Cape Town Water Crisis as a Communication Model for KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

This article aims to explore the potential of peace journalism to address social crises like the Cape Town water shortages of 2017-2018, which was dubbed “Day Zero”. The article draws from media coverage of the water crisis in Cape Town and how it can help KwaZulu-Natal better report conflict-sensitive social issues like water shortages in ways that offer an alternative to sensationalist reporting, which can elicit fear and panic. Adopting a qualitative content analysis and framing analysis, the study advocates for the adoption of peace journalism reportage that emphasises constructive narratives that promote dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable solutions. This paper suggests that peace journalism can help build resilience, foster community solidarity, and encourage responsible water usage practices through more inclusive and solutions-oriented media reporting. The paper calls for the integration of peace journalism principles into media strategies to prevent future crises and promote long-term water security for vulnerable regions.