SEATTLE, Washington — As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, Mali discovered a way to connect with and inform its citizens. Mali radio stations, like Mikado FM, are raising awareness around COVID-19 and the implementation of the World Health Organization’s guidelines. In the capital of Bamako, popular shows, like “Midikado,” test listeners’ knowledge about social distancing procedures, offer gifts to informed participants and outline the virus’s symptoms. Through these tactics, these radio stations aid their country throughout the health crisis.
Mali Radio Stations
Mali radio stations did not always possess the power and breadth they have today. Rather, they arrived when the country needed to negotiate peace and quell ethnic divisions. In 2013, terrorist organizations associated with Al-Qaeda attacked the region, encouraging dissent and division. To assist the country, France deployed troops as the United Nations developed its Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Now considered the most dangerous U.N. mission, MINUSMA barely managed to negotiate a peace accord in 2015 that focused on disarmament and demobilization. Violence still plagues parts of the country, especially as Dogon farmers and Fulani herders—two warring ethnic groups—continue to fight for territory. As the U.N. prepared to leave Mali, MINUSMA decided to fund radio stations to promote peace and encourage conversations.
When COVID-19 arrived in March, Mali radio stations switched their focus from peacekeeping to healthcare and advocacy. Mikado FM received the most attention as its programs specialize in reaching as many communities as possible. To assist their country through COVID-19, Mikado FM and other Mali radio stations are helping in several ways.
Reaching Out to Isolated Communities
Thanks to MINUSMA’s Quick Impact Project, Mali radio stations increased their frequency through stronger signal transmitters. The U.N. also provided Mali radio stations with broadcasting and production equipment. The U.N. hoped these radio stations would reach out to isolated communities and curb ethnic violence.
Stations like Mikado FM fulfilled their promise and now have adapted their programs to keep isolated communities updated about the pandemic. Around 67% of the population cannot read or write, making radio stations vital information sources. Mikado FM supports the needs of isolated communities by playing its programs in various languages. Dispersing information in French, Bambara, Songhay, Tamasheq, Fulani and Arabic helps every community feel valued and protected.
Creating Shows Around Healthcare
Mali radio stations adapted their programs to include updated information about the virus. Mainly, Mikado FM engages with its listeners during every episode, posing two questions about COVID-19 for listeners to answer. This vigorous questioning keeps the public vigilant about COVID-19 symptoms and prevention.
Radio stations now devote a weekly show to health and well-being. By speaking with the deputy director of the National Health Department, Abdoulaye Guindo, and the World Health Organization’s representative in Mali, Dr. Jean-Pierre Baptiste, these radio stations also keep listeners informed about the work of government health agencies.
Mikado FM even added a psychologist to their staff to discuss the importance of mental health during the pandemic. The station also pioneered a children’s show entitled “Coronavirus Explained to Children” to test children’s knowledge about the virus and keep them entertained while quarantined.
Countering Misinformation
While updating, testing and supporting communities, radio stations also work to counter misinformation and rumors surrounding the virus. Several hosts at Mikado FM monitored social media and noticed that rumors about the pandemic were spreading quickly.
To dispel misinformation, Mikado FM launched their show “Le vrai du faux,” or “True From False.” The host of this show, Aboubacar Dicko, finds fake news stories circulating across social media and debunks them. Shows like these decrease the public’s fears as their listeners receive accurate information about the virus.
Lasting impact
From peacekeeping to the pandemic, Mali radio stations like Mikado FM, are working to support their communities during crises. Mali’s citizens remain hopeful about their country’s future as violence ebbs and misinformation fades. Despite ethnic divisions and mandatory quarantines, citizens can rely on Mali radio stations as “lifelines” for information.
– Kyler Juarez
Photo: Pixabay