Radio programs build trust between youth and health workers in Mchinji, Malawi

A DRP-trained youth reporter, at left, conducts an interview on Mudzi Wathu Community Radio in Mchinji, Malawi.

For many young people in Mchinji, social media posts and advice from friends have long been the go‑to sources for information on sexual and reproductive health – leading to misinformation. Now, that is changing. A series of radio programs that aired in May 2026 on Mudzi Wathu Community Radio in Mchinji is helping young people turn to health professionals instead of social media or friends for advice on sexual and reproductive health.

Health workers say the broadcasts have led to more interaction between youth and health facilities, with more adolescents and young adults visiting clinics with confidence to ask questions they previously kept to themselves or discussed with friends.

“The radio programs aired on Mudzi Wathu Community Radio have strengthened the link between young people and health facilities,” said Vincent Adriano, a community nurse at Nkhwazi Health Centre. “We have noticed that many youths are coming to the health center with greater confidence to ask questions about sexual and reproductive health, something that was less common before. They often refer to issues discussed on the radio and seek clarification from health workers,” he added.

Adriano said that the programs are not only increasing awareness but are also building trust in health professionals as reliable sources of information, which is essential for informed decision-making.

Cecilia Khombe, head of Kapanga Health Centre, said the impact is already visible in the community. “The radio programs have made a positive difference in our community. More young people are seeking accurate sexual and reproductive health information from the health facility, showing that the messages aired on Mudzi Wathu are encouraging informed and healthy choices.”

Zefenia Chitedze, head of Mkanda Health Centre, noted that the broadcasts have helped correct widespread misconceptions. “The radio programs have helped address many misconceptions surrounding sexual and reproductive health among young people. Since the broadcasts began, we have seen more youths coming to the health center seeking factual information and services. This shows that the station is playing an important role in promoting accurate health information and encouraging positive health-seeking behavior.”

Agness Jarafi, Youth-Friendly Health Services Coordinator at Mchinji District Hospital, said the radio has also amplified existing health outreach. “We have observed more young people seeking information about confidential youth-friendly services, and there has been increased collaboration from schools and partner organizations to strengthen these services. Community radio has been an important platform for reinforcing the messages we are delivering through our health programs.”

The programs encouraged listeners to ask health experts directly if they had questions, emphasizing that what they see on social media or hear from friends may not be accurate.