By Burnett Munthali
The government has commended community and special interest radio stations for their pivotal role in enhancing access to Early Childhood Care and Development (ECD) services in Malawi.
Dalitso Chikwembani, Director of Technical Services in the Ministry of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, praised the Interactive Radio Instructions (IRI) programs, Tiyende and Tisewere, as highly effective tools for reaching large groups of children, including those in remote areas.
Speaking during the 2024 second review meeting with community radio stations on the IRI programme, Chikwembani highlighted the programs’ significant impact on promoting child development and ensuring educational access for all.
“These IRI programs have proven to be a transformative method for delivering early childhood education. By reaching even the most hard-to-reach areas, they are contributing immensely to the growth and development of Malawi’s youngest generation,” Chikwembani stated.
Currently, ECD service access in Malawi stands at 54 percent. However, Chikwembani reiterated the government’s ambition to achieve 100 percent quality service delivery, ensuring that every child benefits from early learning opportunities.
Meanwhile, Jean Chirombo, a member of the Radio Task Force, acknowledged the role of community radio stations in supporting the initiative through corporate social responsibility.
“These stations have generously aired these programs, helping to advance the agenda of increasing access to ECD and fostering child development both at household levels and in Community-Based Childcare Centres (CBCCs). However, our work is not done,” Chirombo said.
She noted efforts to re-engage radio stations that previously withdrew from the program and to onboard additional stations to expand the initiative’s reach.
The government, through partnerships with media outlets, aims to strengthen its outreach and ensure every child in Malawi benefits from early stimulation, learning, and development opportunities.
The Tiyende and Tisewere programs are emblematic of how collaborative efforts between government, communities, and media can drive sustainable development and empower the nation’s future leaders.
