Sub-Saharan Africa media scholars redefines communication for social change

Media scholars from University of Malawi and Lilongwe University of Natural Resources have redefined how development can achieve a change through a groundbreaking book released early in April.

The book titled “Communication for Social Change: Amplifying Marginalized Voices” examines how social change in Sub-Saharan Africa is shaped by everyday actors, emerging technologies, and evolving political cultures.

One of the authors, Dr Chavinda from University of Malawi, says social change is not only produced through formal institutions or high-level political processes it is also driven by communities, youth networks, cultural expressions, and grassroots initiatives.

Through an interdisciplinary approach, the book has emphasized that Indaba, Sankofa and Orality are key strategies making them culturally relevant to the region refuting the dominance of Western approaches which have failed to appeal and bring change.

This first edition of the book targets scholars, students, and researchers in fields such as political science, sociology, communication, and development studies including Policymakers, civil society organisations andjournalists who can find the volume imperative for evidence based decisions.

The book has been authored by Chimwemwe Chavinda, Victor Chikaipa, Jimmy Kainja, Japheth Mchakulu and Yamikan Ndasauka.By Mathews Kennedy