Radio Programs Spark Cooking Demonstrations Aimed at Improving Health

Teenager Gilbert Gongwe, fighting smoke in a kitchen area, took part in a cooking demonstration in Mzuzu and shows off the dish he made during the event.

(September 25, 2024) DRP partner radio station, the Voice of Livingstonia in Mzuzu, Malawi has inspired a grassroots effort to improve the diets of pregnant adolescents and teen mothers in the community. The Engucwini Extension Planning Area has responded to VOL's radio programs on healthy diets by organizing a series of cooking demonstrations aimed at teaching young mothers and fathers how to prepare nutritious meals using local ingredients.

Hamis Chisambi, the coordinator of the Agricultural Extension Development office, has taken the lead in organizing these events. "The cooking events were directly influenced by the insights shared in your radio programs," Chisambi explained to radio station reporter Rhoda Msiska. "They emphasized practical ways to use local foods, which encouraged us to organize these events."

They are being held across six villages where the extension office operates.

The initiative has gotten positive feedback from attendees.

Malumbo Chiumia, one of the participants, shared her experience: "I appreciate the cooking demonstration. They taught us to use local foods and make healthy, tasty meals for our families and Voice of Livingstonia must be commended for bringing up important topics such as this."

To date, approximately 32 people have attended the demonstrations, including ten adolescents.

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