Media Hub Malawi, a group of media practiotioners, has donated more than K1 million towards veteran journalist Akwete Sande’s medical expenses.
About 180 journalists on the WhatsApp group contributed to help Sande, who has cancer and requires medical treatment abroad.
Media Hub Malawi Administrator Gregory Gondwe said the group realised how important it is for members of the fraternity to help each other in times of need.
“Akwete has always been there to provide counsel, mentorship and leadership to young and established practitioners in the trade. It is saddening that he is under the weather. This is we decided to do our part as his brothers and sisters in the profession.” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Sande family, Bernard Mtamba—a cousin to Sande— said the family was grateful that the media fraternity in the country has remembered one of their own and decided to help.
“We urge you to do the same to others who will be in need,” he said.
The gesture by the media practitioners has also invigorated the Akwete Sande Fund raising committee, which is set to raise about K8 million for his treatment in Zimbabwe.
“We are very thankful to all the journalists who have made this contribution. As a committee this donation signals another starting point as we were slowing down in our efforts. Now we will keep knocking on several doors to ensure that we get these resources. We will not stop until Akwete gets treatment. Be assured that this money is in safe hands,” assured Mtamba.
Malawi Media Hub is a WhatsApp forum for media practitioners, including those that are essentially in media and communication but are no longer in the mainstream journalism.
The forum is an important peer-based mentoring and information sharing portal for Malawian journalists.
Following the Akwete Sande initiative, the Hub has now set up a committee, which is chaired by veteran media practitioner Zeria Banda.
Among others, the committee has been tasked to oversee the formation of the Malawi Media Hub Social Welfare Association. The association will be an offshoot grouping of journalists committed to promoting social support and camaraderie among journalists.
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