Kishimi Shelter and Care Foundation has sensitised journalists, media professionals, and social media influencers on issues surrounding stigma, rights abuse, gender-based violence (GBV), and discrimination.
The sensitisation programme, held on Tuesday at the foundation’s office, brought together key media stakeholders to strengthen advocacy and public awareness on gender and health-related challenges.
Speaking during the session, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the foundation, Philip Joshua, said the initiative is supported by multiple partners and will run for ten months.
“This project is funded by the Global Fund, the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme, the Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics, (Jhpiego) in partnership with the Kishimi Foundation. The programme is titled Integrating access to Sexual Reproductive Health Rights and Communicable diseases, expected to run for ten months,” he stressed the critical role of the media in addressing societal challenges tied to GBV and discrimination.
“It is important to involve the media in sensitising the public on gender-based violence, stigma, and discrimination, as well as addressing cultural and religious misconceptions surrounding family planning and adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights,” he stated.
He further highlighted the responsibility of media practitioners in ensuring ethical reporting and protecting vulnerable groups.
“The media must promote rights-based service delivery and ensure confidentiality for beneficiaries. They have a duty to use their platforms to educate the public on stigma and discrimination, as many individuals avoid seeking care due to fear of being stigmatised,” Joshua added. According to him, the media can also play a vital role in encouraging survivors of violence to seek help.
“Journalists and influencers should encourage victims of gender-based violence to speak up and access support services,” he said.
On cultural and religious barriers to healthcare access, Joshua called for broader community engagement.
“Religious and traditional leaders must support ongoing sensitisation efforts by educating their communities on the importance of accessing healthcare services, including family planning and screening for communicable diseases,” he noted.
The programme is part of ongoing efforts by the foundation to strengthen public awareness, promote inclusive healthcare, and combat harmful social norms.
