Development Media International plans to launch a radio campaign addressing health outcomes for mothers and young children across three Malawian districts. The initiative targets Karonga, Dowa and Mangochi, areas selected for their weak health metrics and strong radio audience reach. Broadcasting will occur in Chichewa and Tumbuka through 35 advertisement spots on stations such as MBC 1, MBC 2, Zodiak, Radio Maria, Radio Islam and Tuntufye.
Senior Research Manager Stephen Kumwenda told the district executive committee in Dowa that the program aims to reduce preventable deaths by educating communities about critical health practices. The campaign will encourage pregnant women to attend antenatal appointments regularly and use mosquito nets treated with insecticide. Additional messages will support exclusive breastfeeding and faster identification and care for diarrhea, pneumonia and malaria among children under age five. Africa Media Monitoring Agency will track broadcast compliance across participating stations.
Dowa District Council Chief Administrative Officer Mathews Mkandawire requested that organizations working in the area provide regular updates to the local government. He suggested partners sign memorandums of understanding with both the council and civil society networks before beginning field operations to improve coordination and accountability.
Senior Research Manager Stephen Kumwenda told the district executive committee in Dowa that the program aims to reduce preventable deaths by educating communities about critical health practices. The campaign will encourage pregnant women to attend antenatal appointments regularly and use mosquito nets treated with insecticide. Additional messages will support exclusive breastfeeding and faster identification and care for diarrhea, pneumonia and malaria among children under age five. Africa Media Monitoring Agency will track broadcast compliance across participating stations.
Dowa District Council Chief Administrative Officer Mathews Mkandawire requested that organizations working in the area provide regular updates to the local government. He suggested partners sign memorandums of understanding with both the council and civil society networks before beginning field operations to improve coordination and accountability.
