National News

Media key to behavioural change—minister

 

Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Jean Kalilani has said the media remains crucial in the country’s drive to effectively implement various social initiatives aimed at promoting behavioural change.

She was speaking yesterday at Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Lilongwe at the end of a joint big walk the ministry held in conjunction with Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa) Malawi Chapter.

Kalilani (L) making a symbolic presentation of the donation to Ngoma

Kalilani also commended the role the media plays in promoting efforts to curb gender-based violence in the country.

“I think many can agree with me that today we have witnessed the other side of the media; the human side of it. I mean, who would give them a chance that they would be this caring, apart from confronting some of us for answers to stories they are pursuing? Let’s learn to give credit where it’s due.” Kalilani wryly said.

Her remarks followed the media’s donation of assorted items that included toiletries and sugar to victims of gender-based violence seeking medical attention at KCH.

In his remarks, Misa-Malawi chairperson Thom Khanje pledged that the media body will continue with various initiatives aimed at raising awareness on various issues of national importance.

“This is not the end, neither have we started today. In the case of gender-based violence, we felt the issue is a threat to socio-economic development since stability of a nation hinges on the welfare of individual families. Living in harmony, tolerance and understanding should start at household level to which all of us belong,” he said.

KCH director Dr Jonathan Ngoma thanked the media fraternity for the donations, saying they will go a long way in assisting the beneficiaries ahead of the festive season. n

Related Articles

Back to top button