Isiyaku Ahmed
The International Society for Media in Public Health (ISMPH), in partnership with EngenderHealth, has organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for traditional media influencers in Kano with the theme “Media for Impact: Driving Change in Gender, Health, and Community Well-being.”
Traditional media influencers and individuals who command large followership through mainstream platforms such as radio, television, and print were engaged on how best to use their influence to promote health and gender-related advocacy.
Held at Tahir Guest Palace from Monday to Tuesday, the training focused on strengthening the ability of media stakeholders to advance Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH), a key component of Nigeria’s National Health Mission (NHM) and Sustainable Development Goal 3, which targets the reduction of maternal, newborn, and child mortality.
The objectives of the workshop included enhancing participants’ understanding of RMNCAH, gender-based violence (GBV), family planning, relevant statistics, and policies, recognizing the vital role of media in shaping perceptions, influencing behaviors, and advocating for improved health and gender outcomes, equipping influencers with tools to counter misinformation, harmful stereotypes, and stigmatizing narratives.
In her welcome remarks, ISMPH Executive Director, Mrs. Moji Makanjuola, represented by Program Director, Solomon Dogo, commended the commitment of media practitioners to creating positive social change.
“Collaboration is crucial in addressing the RMNCAH and primary healthcare agenda in Kano State.
“This training provides a platform to share ideas, strengthen advocacy efforts, and build partnerships that can drive meaningful impact.
“Together, we can make a difference and create lasting change,” she said.
Delivering a goodwill message, Muhammad Inuwa Shuaib, Kano State Team Lead of the Legislative Initiative for Sustainable Development (LISDEL), praised ISMPH and its partners for convening the workshop.
He reaffirmed LISDEL’s support for strengthening accountability, legislative oversight, and increased funding for RMNCAH programs in the state.
Similarly, Atiku Mohammed Yola, Advocacy Coordinator for the Advocacy Solutions for Improved Primary Healthcare Outcomes (ASIP) Project, urged participants to use their platforms to encourage positive health-seeking behaviors, particularly urging pregnant women to attend antenatal clinics and deliver in hospitals for safer outcomes.
The training facilitator, Dr. Nura Haladu, delivered a series of presentations highlighting how traditional media can effectively promote awareness on RMNCAH.
He stressed the power of media influence in shaping public opinion and improving community health outcomes.
Participants’ Reactions
Abubakar Adamu Rano, Managing Director of Kano State Radio Corporation, described the training as a morale booster.
“It has motivated me to train my staff at Radio Kano to exceed expectations in delivering impactful health journalism,” he said.
For Gambo Ahmed Mustapha, a media consultant with Muhasa Radio and Television, the sessions provided new insights.
“The training has broadened my knowledge on RMNCAH issues and the importance of accuracy and fact-checking, particularly when dealing with gender-related topics,” she noted.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment by media practitioners to leverage their platforms for advancing gender equality, reducing maternal and child mortality, and promoting healthier communities in Kano State.
