Empowering Scribes on Disaster Reporting in Malawi
The program exemplifies rising efforts to fortify disaster response capabilities in Malawi and the region struggling with precipitated climate shocks.
MZUZU, Malawi — With Malawi reeling from a recent barrage of cyclones, floods and droughts, journalists in the country are being equipped with specialized training to enhance disaster risk reduction coverage crucial for protecting vulnerable communities, writes Tionge Hara.
The two-day intensive program organized by the African Union and the local Association of Environmental Journalists focuses on arming 20 reporters with the tools and expertise to report precisely and impactfully on environmental calamities.
"Recently Malawi has been hit by various disasters...it is important to empower the media in these times so we can contribute to reducing risks to communities," said Capital FM's Kelvin Tembo, underscoring the urgency.
Eliot Christian, a presenter, drove home the importance of the Common Alerting Protocol for delivering timely emergency alerts.
"Seconds are critical for sudden events like earthquakes, tornadoes...Without CAP, a life-saving alert might arrive too late."
Wongibe Emmanuel assisted journalists in mastering foundational disaster terminology, with participants demonstrating a firm grasp of hazard definitions.
"The training content is rich," Tembo said. "I've already learned a lot that will help my disaster risk reduction reporting."
As climate change amplifies extreme weather, the virtual workshop highlights environmental journalists' vital role in crisis preparedness through early warnings and raising public awareness.
The program exemplifies rising efforts to fortify disaster response capabilities in Malawi and the region struggling with precipitated climate shocks.