Communication Interventions
Across Nigeria, Ghana, and Zambia, this work package focuses on bridging the divide between health researchers and journalists to improve the accuracy, reach, and impact of SCD reporting.
Bernard Appiah - Communication Work Package Team Lead
Effective communication is crucial in addressing gaps in sickle cell disease (SCD) awareness and advocacy. Across Nigeria, Ghana, and Zambia, this work package focuses on bridging the divide between health researchers and journalists to improve the accuracy, reach, and impact of SCD reporting.
The PACTS Communication Intervention is designed to:
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Identify communication gaps through data collection from health researchers and journalists.
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Foster collaboration between journalists and researchers to enhance media coverage of SCD.
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Assess the impact of the intervention using longitudinal social network analysis.
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PACTS Nigeria First Media Workshop – February 2024
In February 2024, Dr. Bernard, Team Lead for the Communication Work Package, visited Nigeria to initiate the researcher-journalist engagement study and strengthen media collaborations for improved SCD communication.
Key Activities:
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Training & Research Tools Development: Dr. Bernard worked closely with research assistants (RAs), PhD fellows, and the Principal Investigator (PI) to refine the data collection tools for the researcher-journalist study.
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Media Engagement: In coordination with Mr. Aro, he engaged with radio stations to discuss strategies for leveraging media in SCD awareness and advocacy. ​​
Dr Bernard Media Training Workshop February 2024
CESRTA Training Workshop February 2024
PACTS Nigeria Second Media Workshop – November 18-20, 2024
​In November 2024, Dr. Bernard, Lead of the Communication Work Package, visited Nigeria for the Second Media Workshop, aimed at enhancing the quality of sickle cell disease (SCD) reporting and researcher-media engagement.
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Key Highlights of the Workshop:
Training for Journalists
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Best practices for accurate and ethical reporting on SCD.
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Introduction to content analysis and its benefits in improving SCD narratives.
Training for Researchers
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Strategies for effectively engaging with journalists to ensure accurate reporting.
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How to translate research findings into accessible information for the media.
Collaborative Radio Campaign Development
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Patients, caregivers, researchers, and journalists co-developed a radio campaign to tell compelling SCD stories.
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In Nigeria, the campaign focused on newborn screening, emphasizing its importance in early SCD detection and management.
This workshop reinforced the power of media in shaping public perception and driving awareness about sickle cell disease in Nigeria.
