Chakwera, celebrities in Covid-19 campaign

President Lazarus Chakwera has turned to popular artists and media personalities to record and spread awareness messages on Covid-19.

In special video clips, the President is seen side by side with the artists addressing several aspects of the pandemic.

In a video message done with rapper Tay Grin, Chakwera says in part: “I have good news today. The vaccines have arrived. We have been fighting Covid-19 for a year now. And we are winning this war because you have taken seriously your part in making sure that the virus does not spread. Despite the fact that the vaccines have arrived, I want you to still make surea that you follow all of the preventive measures that are already in place.”

The President then introduces Tay Grin with his message.

In his address, Tay Grin starts by reminding Malawians about the Covid-19 preventive measures.

“We also need to make sure that we take care of our mental health. Mental health is important but not addressed so often. We need to make sure that our mental space is positive. Let’s stay innovative. These days everything is going digital. Use those online platforms, help other people in need,” says Tay Grin.

In another video clip with poet Q Malewezi, the President says as the fight against Covid-19 continues: “It is important to give hope to those who have lost their income including artists.”

Taking his turn, Q says creatives must safely create content that not only educates, but also strengthens and encourages themselves, those infected, affected as well as health workers.

“It is very important to restore the hope that has been stolen by despair,” he says in the video.

In a separate interview, State House press officer responsible for digital marketing Martha Chikuni said the campaign is targeted at specific groups with specific messages.

“We know this campaign is sending the message home because these artists have a following and their involvement with the President is making the messages powerful,” she said.

Chikuni, who is leading in the production of the video clips, said the video clips are being shared on several social media platforms for easy access.

Others who have taken part in the campaign so far include Faith Mussa, Skeffa Chimoto and Daudi Suleman.