By Chisomo Phiri
Minister of Information and Digitalisation Moses Kunkuyu has commended radio stations in the country for actively reporting on Tropical Cyclone Freddy that has claimed many lives in the country.
Kunkuyu made the sentiments on Tuesday during the World Radio Day commemorations that took place at Youth Net and Counseling (YONECO) offices in Zomba, with support from Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA).
The Minister indicated that through the frequent news updates government and various stakeholders were able to make swift decisions in rescuing the survivors that were trapped due to the survivors effects of the cyclone.
“However, radio stations should consider paying good perks to their staff to achieve professionalism,” he said.
He said the power and influence of radio in shaping up public opinion, promoting sound decision-making, and preventing or ending conflicts can never be underestimated.
“Radio stations, especially Community Radio Stations, have the responsibility and the power to build peaceful communities and a peaceful Nation.
“As a country, we must therefore strive to ensure that our radio stations are managed professionally to take this huge responsibility of building a peaceful Malawi,” said Kunkuyu.
On his part, MACRA board member Reverend Father Saindi also agreed with the Minister saying radio stations are playing a crucial role in informing and warning people from the affected areas about the impact of cyclone Freddy.
“As we all know the southern region of Malawi has been hit by Cyclone Freddy which has left many families homeless, among the leading communication channels to warn or inform the public of any development regarding the impact of the cyclone,” Father Saindi said.
Speaking on behalf of the three co-hosts board chairperson of YONECO Prof Dixie Maluwa expressed his gratitude to MACRA for the timely donation.
The commemoration started with a solidarity march from Chinamwali Trading Center to Yoneco premises led by the Malawi Prison Brass Band and traditional dances.
This year, the day was set to be celebrated on February 13, but each country is at liberty to choose a convenient day to celebrate it.
