Communication Gap Between Scientists and the Public on the Climate Change Discourse; a Case of Kasarani Constituency

Abstract

Despite the popular dialogue among the scientists on climate change, the general public’s level of understanding and their engagement in climate change discourse remains a concern as the public remains uninformed and disengaged. Despite abundant scientific evidence, there is lack of understanding at the local level. For the public to contribute to the climate discourse, it is imperative to the identify the cause of the disconnect and therefore assess the extent of knowledge and communication gap between the public. This study looked at the communication gaps between the scientists and the public on the discourse around climate change within Kasarani Constituency. Using a mixed-method approach, including questionnaires and in-depth interviews, the study assessed the level of public awareness, communication gaps, and the factors contributing to these gaps. The research employed the Information Deficit theory, attributing the public's disengagement to lack of information. To arrive at the findings a target population of 60 respondents selected through Stratified random sampling, 15 scientists purposively selected from climate related organizations and 15 journalists who report on climate thematic area also selected purposively were selected. Data generated was presented in Tables and Pie Charts. The study concluded that there is a communication gap between scientists and the public on climate change discourse and both the media and scientists are contributors to this. The study recommends strategies that will enhance climate change communication.