Tune in to the Dangers of Malaria (Africa Malaria Day 2003)

This initiative involved using entertaining approaches to educate Zimbabweans about the risks that malaria poses to their health, as well as concrete ways to prevent the disease. Specifically, organisers released “edutainment” materials, such as Mtukudzi’s song “Tune in to the Dangers of Malaria”, a video clip and posters. The messages included in the song and poster were:

• Malaria is a major public health problem in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Malaria is preventable and curable
• Seek malaria treatment early if you suspect you have malaria
• Use treated mosquito nets to avoid mosquito bites

By involving Mtukudzi in the campaign, the organisers were able to spread their message to the large crowds that the Zimbabwe-born artist attracted at the Harare International Festival of the Arts. According to the organisers, “Artists and Musicians are playing an important role in mobilising people for social action, advocacy, and lobbying for support in Rolling Back Malaria in Southern Africa.”

At the same time, given that Mtukudzi (or “Tuku” as he is known to fans), “is at the centre of Zimbabwe traditional music, Afro jazz and contemporary popular music”, the organisers hope that the positive messages and information that is shared in this song will affect listeners on a more personal level. Organisers believe that this strategy for communicating information about malaria through popular music, in contrast to reading materials or classroom paedagogy, has the potential to affect individuals on a personal level because the learning experience is informal and entertaining, and the message is delivered by an artist who, in certain circumstances, can function as a role model.

Health.

Malaria is a major public health problem and second leading cause of illness and death in Southern Africa Developing Countries (SADC). It kills 200,000 people every year in the region. SAMC alongside WHO Africa have been working together to provide technical support to malaria control programmes in Southern Africa. Africa Malaria Day is intended to allow stakeholders in the fight against malaria at all levels - non-governmental organisations (NGOs), the private sector, development partners, and others - to assemble and celebrate the progress of the SAMC malaria campaign as per the goals of the Roll Back Malaria movement in Southern Africa.