Media Urged to Take Lead in Raising Awareness on Non-Communicable Diseases in Malawi
During a media engagement in Karonga on Friday, Assistant Project Officer Jonathan Munthali emphasized the urgency of addressing NCDs, citing their significant impact on health and society.
KARONGA, Malawi — The Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Alliance is calling on the media to play a crucial role in raising awareness about NCDs, which account for 40% of deaths in Malawi, according to 2021 WHO data, writes Lusekero Mhango.
During a media engagement in Karonga on Friday, Assistant Project Officer Jonathan Munthali emphasized the urgency of addressing NCDs, citing their significant impact on health and society.
He stressed the need for a comprehensive approach, including media involvement, to disseminate information and raise awareness about NCDs, given the escalating costs associated with these conditions.
"The media are instrumental in reaching the masses, making their involvement crucial in spreading awareness about NCDs," Munthali said.
Journalist Jordan Phiri from Nation Publication Ltd echoed Munthali's sentiments, urging fellow journalists to report on NCD-related stories to educate communities and mitigate the prevalence of NCDs in Malawi.
"Journalism is a powerful tool for driving positive change. By shining a spotlight on NCDs, we can empower individuals to make informed choices about their health and inspire collective action towards healthier communities," Phiri said.
The NCD Alliance is currently implementing a four-year project to scale up NCD prevention, management, and strategies, with support from the World Diabetes Foundation, Partners In Health, and the Ministry of Health.