Media Narratives and Agrarian Conflicts: Unveiling the Discourse on Farmer Pastoralist Tensions in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper examines the portrayal of farmer-pastoralist conflicts in Tanzanian media, with a focus on how these narratives shape public perception and inform policy. Despite significant contributions to the economy, pastoralists face negative media depictions that exacerbate tensions with farmers. Using Norman Fairclough's model of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the research examines the language and framing in media articles to uncover biases and their societal impact. The paper employs a qualitative methodology, analyzing headlines, lead paragraphs, and lexical choices in media representations over the last 30 years. Findings reveal that media often depict pastoralists as violent, irrational, and obstructive to development, which marginalizes them and reinforces societal prejudices. Positive portrayals, though less frequent, highlight their roles as peaceful, environmentally conscious, and politically significant. The discussion explores the political economy of media in Tanzania, highlighting how the interests of dominant socio-political groups are often served at the expense of pastoralists. Conclusions stress the need for balanced media representations to foster understanding and sustainable coexistence between farmers and pastoralists. Recommendations call for media practices that reflect the complexities of pastoral life and contribute to more equitable policy frameworks.