Youth Radio Feedback Prompts Malawi Hospital to Open Private Consultation Room

Youth waiting to speak with a doctor at a Mchinji, Malawi hospital. As of July, they will be able to talk in a private space with the doctor after youth complained on a radio program about the lack of privacy at the hospital.

21-year old Gift Mwale of Mchinji, Malawi went to his local hospital in May 2026 with questions about sexual and reproductive health for the doctor.  But he noticed there was no private space to ask personal questions – just a crowded public area where everyone would be able to overhear his discussion with the doctor.

So, he left.

Then, he started thinking that he’s probably not the only young person that feels uncomfortable approaching a doctor in a public space to discuss personal concerns.

He remembered hearing a radio program on his local community station, Mudzi Wathu Radio, that discussed sexual and reproductive health issues – right there on the air.

Gift contacted the station and described his concerns about the lack of private space at Kipiri Mission Hospital.  Other youth also called in with similar concerns about the lack of privacy at the hospital.

Their concerns reached hospital leadership, prompting a concrete response in June.

Sister Cathreen Maunde, the Youth Friendly Health Services Coordinator at Kapiri, told the radio station that a special, private area has now been set up for youth.

“The concerns raised by young people during the radio programs highlighted the need for greater privacy when accessing sexual and reproductive health services. As a hospital, we listened to that feedback and established this dedicated room so that young people can freely discuss sensitive issues with health workers in a confidential environment,” Sister Maunde said.

Gift says he's glad he raised the issue on air.

“I am happy that the hospital listened to the concerns we raised through the radio programs. Having a private room means young people can now discuss sensitive issues without fear of being overheard. I believe more youths will now be comfortable accessing services,” he said.