Abstract

The structure of modern journalism, is closely intertwined with technological transformations,unfolding in the communication space.The advent of WhatsApp, has triggered a drastic reconfiguration of newsrooms and radically transformed journalistic practices. Drawing on the Network theory,this study explores the impact of WhatsApp on Zimbabwean journalistic practices,using the Chronicle and NewsDay newspapers,as a case study.The study gathered data,using a total of 75 questionnaires and 3 in-depth interviews.The study established that,WhatsApp apart from having a profound impact on news-making processes at the Chronicle and NewsDay,has also massively changed the consumption practices of media consumers.The emergence of WhatsApp as the primary news-making and consumption tool,has been triggered by its numerous  advantages.However,the study also ascertained that,the social media platform,has  ushered a number of challenges,which threaten traditional journalism.There are concerns that,WhatsApp is promoting fake news,eroding essential journalistic skills and triggering a decline in newspaper hard copy sales.It is therefore, imperative for newsrooms to embrace WhatsApp with caution.Its adoption must be accompanied by investment in ethical training and the preservation of essential old age journalistic values and professional practices

Keywords

WhatsApp,social media,newsrooms,journalism