Minister of Information and Digitalisation, Moses Kunkuyu, has urged radio stations in the country to exercise responsibility in their work by reporting on issues that contribute to national development.
Kunkuyu made the call on Thursday when he presided over the commemoration of World Radio Day in Kasungu District, held under the theme ‘Radio and Climate Change.’
The minister emphasised that radio stations should provide hope and focus on life-changing messages that can transform communities.
“Radio has been a reliable medium of communication in our society, especially in an era of widespread misinformation and disinformation on social media. However, we must ensure that we report responsibly.
“We must, therefore, strive to manage our radio stations professionally, given their crucial role in nation-building. Climate change is a real and pressing issue, one that no community can ignore,” Kunkuyu said.
He also urged radio stations to maintain political neutrality in their broadcasts, ensuring fairness and objectivity.
“The people we broadcast to are well-informed and capable of making their own decisions. Our role is not to decide for them but to provide accurate information that enables them to make informed choices,” added Kunkuyu.
The event, observed annually on 13 February, was supported by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) in partnership with UNESCO.
MACRA Board Chairperson, Bridget Chibwana, highlighted the devastating effects of climate change in Malawi, which have destroyed key economic infrastructure, including radio towers, underscoring the need for effective mitigation measures.
“Radio remains a powerful and reliable tool for disseminating information on changing climatic patterns and their effects to all communities efficiently.
“We recognise the critical role that radio plays in raising awareness about climate change. Through this commemoration, we aim to highlight its importance in that regard,” said Chibwana.
In his remarks, UNESCO Executive Secretary David Mulela described World Radio Day as an opportunity to celebrate a resilient, versatile, and widely accessible medium that plays a key role in adapting to and mitigating climate change.
“At a time when extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common, we must acknowledge the vital and often life-saving role of radio.
“Radio can reach even the most remote locations and function even during power outages, making it an essential tool in crisis situations. It serves as an early warning system, helping to reduce disaster risks and save countless lives,” Mulela said.
The event, which was also attended by the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Media, Susan Dossi, as well as traditional leaders, saw MACRA donating computers to selected community radio stations to support their broadcasting efforts.
In 2011, UNESCO designated 13th February as World Radio Day, recognising its significance in mass communication.
By Wanangwa Tembo, MANA
