Analyzing media coverage of the GERD negotiations. A comparison between Ethiopian and Egyptian perspectives

Master's Thesis from the year 2021 in the subject Communications - Journalism, Journalism Professions, grade: A, Addis Ababa University (Language and communication), course: Journalism, language: English, abstract: This paper aims to shed light on the differences and similarities in the coverage of the Ethiopian Reporter Newspaper and Egyptian Ahram Online on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) tripartite negotiations between January and August 2020. By applying the theories of agenda setting and framing, using both quantitative and qualitative methods, this study provides an in-depth analysis of media representation and its potential influence on public perception and policy.

This study examines the coverage of the GERD negotiations by the Ethiopian Reporter Newspaper and Ahram Online within a specific period in 2020. By using agenda setting and framing theories, the reports were analyzed for their perspectives on legal, technical, developmental, international and mistrust aspects. A particular focus was placed on the different framings: While Ahram Online preferred the internationalization framework to place the negotiations in a broader geopolitical context, the reporter placed greater emphasis on Ethiopia's natural and sovereign right to its water resources. The results show clear differences in the use of specific frames, indicating divergent national interests and narratives. It also highlights the importance of a cooperative media platform for Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan to reduce tensions and build trust between the people of the three countries.