Journalists awarded for child rights reporting

Unicef and Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) on Monday awarded journalists for taking a leading role in reporting on child rights issues, including education and health.

Nation Publications Limited reporter Lloyd Chitsulo came first, Malawi Broadcasting Corporation Alefa Lyson was second and Blantyre Synod Radio reporter Angella Masache came third.

The top two winners received a laptop each while the third winner got a smartphone.

Speaking during the MIJ Strengthening Child Rights Reporting Project Symposium in Salima, MIJ chief executive officer Anthony Phanga commended the reporters for dedicating their time and focusing on child rights reporting.

“Children being a majority in the country, deserve to be heard and celebrated,” he said.

Phanga also said the project has helped MIJ students to deepen their skills on child rights reporting.

Unicef communications officer Rabecca Phwitiko said the Media is an important stakeholder for improving the lives of children.

“Basically, we want to improve the quality and quantity of media products on child rights issues,” she said.

One of the awardees Lyson, said the recognition will motivate her to report more on child rights.

Unicef partnered with MIJ in 2018 to work towards strengthening child rights reporting among practising and student journalists.