Angola Bolsters Public Health Response with National Media Training Initiative
In a significant move to enhance public health communication, Angola has launched a comprehensive national training program focused on equipping media professionals with the skills to effectively respond to health emergencies. The initiative, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health (MINSA) and the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Social Communication (MINTTICS), was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and funded by the European Union.The training brought together over 100 journalists and communicators from 13 of Angola’s provinces, underscoring the critical role of the media in safeguarding public health. Held as a foundational step toward establishing Angola’s Health Communication Network, the program aims to create a robust platform for collaboration among media outlets, local authorities, and international partners. This network is designed to foster coordinated, effective communication strategies during health crises, ensuring timely and accurate information reaches the public.Angola’s Secretary of State for Media, Nuno Albino, emphasized the importance of responsible journalism in this context, stating, “When practiced with integrity, journalism enhances health literacy, strengthens social cohesion, and protects lives.” The training featured interactive debates, practical exercises, and the introduction of tools to combat misinformation, while encouraging media professionals to build bridges between health authorities and communities.UNICEF Deputy Representative in Angola, Louise Moreira Daniels, highlighted the media’s role in upholding the right to health, noting, “Access to reliable information and culturally relevant narratives is vital for addressing Angola’s unique health challenges.” These challenges include persistent issues like maternal and infant mortality, recurring epidemic outbreaks, and the growing impacts of climate change, all of which demand clear, accessible, and evidence-based communication.The initiative reflects Angola’s broader commitment to strengthening public trust in its health system through transparent and timely communication. Dr. Tomás Valdez, WHO Acting Representative in Angola, reinforced this, stating, “Investing in communication ensures that during epidemics, climate emergencies, or vaccination campaigns, the population has the information needed to adopt healthy behaviors.”By fostering a skilled and coordinated media network, Angola is positioning itself to better manage health crises and promote public health resilience, aligning with international standards for effective health communication. This landmark training marks a proactive step toward empowering communities with the knowledge to navigate complex health challenges, ensuring a healthier and more informed population.
Health Communication Strategies
Global Health Initiatives
