Miss Malawi 2025 Thandie Chisi has encouraged young people to embrace open engagement on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues, saying lack of honest conversations is contributing to health risks among the youth.
In her contribution on a Banja La Mtsogolo Talk show, where she led discussions on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) together with a health expert Patrick Jailosi.
| Nation
She said her decision to take part in the programme was driven by the growing need to address sensitive but important health issues affecting young people.
Chisi said her role as Miss Malawi gives her a platform to influence positive change.
“There is a high rate of STIs and a decline in the use of condoms since last year. I thought it was wise to go on the show to discuss these issues because they are affecting young people,” she said.
Chisi said she believed her participation will help to break the silence and encourage young people to seek accurate information from health experts instead of relying on myths and misinformation.
“These issues affect young people and being someone with influence, I saw a great opportunity to unpack the issues and see how we can move forward. Young people need rhe right information to break taboos sorrounding these topics,” she said.
Meanwhile, Miss Malawi Organisation public relations officer Stephen Mdala said involving young ambassadors in such discussions helps to drive home the message and connect better with fellow youths.
“It makes the youth more connected when they see someone as young as themselves tackling such issues. It is about relatability because young people can easily relate with one of their own,” he said.
Mdala also said the organisation continues to use its youth-driven platform and leverages its partnerships to address issues affecting young people.
The talk show was broadcast on Zodiak Broadcating Station which recently signed a media partnership deal with the organisation worth K150 million to help Miss Malawi amplify empowerment and advocacy initiatives across the country.
