Old Mutual's Media Training Aims to Boost Malawi's Pension Literacy
This training, the latest in Old Mutual Malawi's ongoing effort to elevate financial reporting, underscores a growing recognition of media's role in economic literacy.
LILONGWE, Malawi — In a push to enhance financial journalism in Malawi, Old Mutual conducted a pivotal workshop focused on the country's new Pensions Act for journalists in Lilongwe, writes Catherine Tembo.
The air-conditioned conference room, a stark contrast to Lilongwe's typical heat, hosted journalists eager to unpack the intricacies of legislation that could reshape millions of Malawians' financial futures.
This training, the latest in Old Mutual Malawi's ongoing effort to elevate financial reporting, underscores a growing recognition of media's role in economic literacy.
Patience Chatsika, Old Mutual's Marketing and Corporate Affairs Executive, emphasized this point.
"Our goal extends beyond selling policies," Chatsika said.
"We're investing in Malawi's financial future, with journalists as our crucial partners in this mission."
The workshop, centering on the 2023 Pensions Act, reflects Old Mutual's commitment to a 2020 agreement with MISA Malawi, aiming to bolster business journalism in a nation where nearly half the population lives below the poverty line.
Golden Matonga, MISA Malawi's chairperson, stressed the broader implications of the training.
"Business reporting isn't just about corporate profits. It's about people's livelihoods and retirement dreams. Getting this right is crucial," he said.
Lisa Malango, vice-chairperson of the Association of Women in Media, viewed the workshop as a catalyst for change.
"Empowering journalists, especially women, with this knowledge isn't just about better reporting. It's about reshaping our national conversation on financial security," Malango argued.
As participants left the workshop, armed with new insights into Malawi's evolving pension landscape, a question lingered: Can enhanced journalism drive financial literacy in one of the world's poorest nations?
Old Mutual's substantial investment suggests a belief that it can, with potentially life-changing implications for Malawi's future retirees.
In a country grappling with economic challenges, the impact of this media training could extend far beyond the newsroom, potentially influencing how millions of Malawians plan for their financial futures.