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Organization: QECH Audiology/ENT clinic
Title: Changing mindset: Empower change to make ear and hearing care a reality for all.
Alternate tite:
Changing mindset: Empower change to make ear and hearing care a reality for all.
Description:
The Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) Audiology/ENT team in Blantyre, southern Malawi , in collaboration with Anzathu Charity Initiative and ENT/Audiology clinicians from Kamuzu Central Hospital in the central region, commemorated World Hearing Day on March 3, 2025. The event’s theme was “Changing mindsets: Empowering Change to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All”.
Held at QECH Audiology Clinic, the event aimed to raise awareness about ear and hearing care, promote inclusive services, advocate for hearing health, inspire individuals to protect their hearing. The target audience included the general public, deaf children and their parents, and policy makers.
The event featured a health talk on ear and hearing issues, as well as a showcase of talents and activities by deaf children from Anzathu Charity Initiative, who displayed their handcrafted tailored bags and sun hats. The event received media coverage from several public television, Miji Radio,and Mibawa Radio. Notably, Miji Radio recorded a 30 minute program on ear and hearing care in Chichewa, a local language, to disseminate information to a wider audience. Mibawa Radio followed up with another 30-minute Chichewa program a week later to further amplify the message, particularly in rural communities.
A highlighted of the event was a presentation by Daisy, Project Coordinator of Tsogolo Lowala Deaf Foundation, who shared exciting news about their organisation’s mission to empower deaf children through technical skills training. The foundation offers free six-month training programs in tailoring, carpentry, welding, and knitting, followed by provision of basic starter kits to promote independence.
During the event, 84 participants underwent screening, yielding the following results:
19 diagnosed with chronic suppurative otitis media.
1 had a fpregn bogy removed.
1 received counselling for Tinnitus.
10 had ear wax removed.
15 diagnosed with hearing loss.
6 had hearing aid reviews.
32 had normal hearing levels.
This event successfully promoted awareness, advocacy, and inclusivity for ear and hearing care in Malawi, while highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in improving hearing health outcomes.
Primary site: AFR – Malawi
Secondary sites: SUBSAHARAN AFRICA
Impactful Story:
There was a vibrant showcase of talent and resilience by the deaf children. The deaf children proudly displayed their handiwork, beautifully crafted bags, and stylish hats tailored using sewing machines. These young individuals operated the machines with skill and precision, demonstrating their ability to learn and thrive despite communication barriers. The event highlighted the potential of deaf children when given opportunities and support. The showcase was a testament to the impact of inclusive initiatives that provide vocational training and empowerment. By equipping deaf children with practical skills like sewing, we can unlock their potential and foster independence.
General Photos
a health talk about ear and hearing care in chichewa & sign
hearing screening
showcasing bags and hats made by the deaf children
QECH/ENT, Kamuzu central hospital and Anzathu team
Types of Engagement:
Screening: Yes
Traditional media: Yes
Social media: No
Special needs populations:
Participation of policy makers: No
Participation of influencers: Yes