On 10 February 2023, Malawi Liverpool Wellcome (MLW) Programme, under its Communications and Public Engagement Department held a Journalists in Residence (JIR) Interactive Meeting that served to graduate the 2020-2022   cohort from the programme.

During the JIR graduation ceremony that took place at Mount Soche Hotel, the reporters described the JIR training as helpful and eye-opening in health research reporting.

Mwakhwere Kaliande who works for Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) Radio Station said the JIR Programme has helped journalists understand and relay health research information for the public.

“In  Malawi, health is a topic subject to myths and misconceptions. I am happy that through JIR we were able to get the much-needed skills that enable us to report about health and research in a  way that will address health challenges ,” said Kaliande.

A reporter from Zodiak Broadcasting Station Happy Njalam’mano said the JIR initiative has been central in building a helpful network with fellow journalists and health research experts who shape his health research writings.

“I can no longer write health stories the way I was doing two years ago. My present scripts depict a product of a well-versed journalist who is in a web of experts and therefore is able to understand some science in health research reporting, ” said Njalam’mano.

Senior Editor at Kulinji.com Chisomo Ngulube, described JIR as a big newsroom with blended journalistic skill and experience and was good for learning.

MLW’s Communications and Public Engagement Manager Lindiwe Mafuleka appreciated news writers who are part of the JIR initiative for excellent work.

She said the  JIR project has helped MLW to build and sustain a strong relationship with the media , who are central players  in disseminating research information to the public.