Spots - Roll Back Malaria

ANNEX 1: RESOURCESHow radio complements other channelsBecause radio can communicate with people regardless of their literacy level, it canbe a powerful way to share vital health information. However, radio, particularlyradio spots, are most effective,when part of an overall program, and integrated intoall other malaria communication activities (especially national ones whereappropriate). A communication plan shows how each of these activities workstogether, using the strength of each to reinforce key messages and reach variousaudiences.Three ways to add radio to a communication plan*1. Define the communication objectives based on the national malaria strategy, thelocal malaria strategy, or data that you have analyzed about related issues. (Forexample, increase nightly use of treated nets by children under age 5).2. Identify multiple channels for your messages based on the action (behaviorialobjective) you want the audience to take. (For example,use radio to encouragenightly use of treated nets, especially for pregnant women. Use another channel todescribe how to treat nets with insecticide.)3. Develop radio spots at the same time you are developing other communicationmessages and activities on the same topic. Make sure the messages and toneused are consistent across all channels and reinforce each other.A communication plan helps you organize and integrate your malariacommunication activities. What follows is an example that shows a range of activitiesand channels used to promote treated nets in one local district.*Used with permission from WHO, UNICEF and HealthCOM/USAID (1994), Using Radio Spots toSupport National CDD Programmes, p. 19.Spot On Malaria: Guide101