Media Urged to Take Lead in Raising Awareness on Non-Communicable Diseases in Malawi
The Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Alliance has underscored the critical role of media in raising awareness about NCDs, which account for 40% of deaths in Malawi as per WHO data from 2021.
During a media engagement in Karonga on Thursday, Assistant Project Officer Johnthan Munthali emphasized the urgency of addressing NCDs, citing their significant impact on health and society.
Munthali stressed the need for a comprehensive approach involving media to disseminate information and raise awareness about NCDs, citing the escalating costs associated with these conditions. “The media are instrumental in reaching the masses, making their involvement crucial in spreading awareness about NCDs,” he said.
Journalist Jordan Phiri from Nation Publication Ltd echoed Munthali’s sentiments, urging fellow journalists to delve into reporting on NCD-related stories to educate communities and mitigate the prevalence of NCDs in Malawi.
The NCD Alliance is currently implementing a four-year project aimed at scaling up the implementation and capacity of NCD prevention, management, and strategies, with support from the World Diabetes Foundation through Partners In Health and the Ministry of Health.
