By Titus Linzie, Pretoria, South Africa
One of Malawi’s scientists, Associate Professor Halima Twabi of the University of Malawi (UNIMA), has singled out the existing gap between scientists and science journalists as a major factor affecting science reporting in the country and the SADC region.
She made the observation when she addressed science journalists at the ongoing World Conference of Science Journalists being held in Pretoria, South Africa, under the theme “Representation of Women in Media.”
Twabi said it is unfortunate that journalists are only engaged during the launch or closing of events, or at the dissemination of research findings—situations that leave them without adequate understanding to effectively report on scientific issues.
“Scientists and science journalists should not avoid each other if we want to improve message delivery to end users, in this case ordinary Malawians. Many studies are being conducted in Malawi, but are Malawians benefiting? I don’t think so,” she said.
Associate Professor Twabi also urged fellow scientists to involve ordinary Malawians at every stage of the research process to enhance understanding, noting that communities—like journalists—are often only exposed to research plans or final results.
Spanish science journalist Maria Jose agreed with Twabi, saying the time has come for scientists and journalists to work as a unit for the benefit of ordinary people and those who cannot interpret research findings on their own.
She reminded scientists that engaging the media throughout the research process makes communication easier because journalists are trained to simplify and relay information to wider audiences.
“Engage the media at every level, not only when rolling out a vaccine campaign during an outbreak. Make the media part of your work, and you part of the media, because that relationship will make your work easier,” she said.
The 2025 World Conference of Science Journalists—being hosted for the first time on African soil—started on Monday and will end on Saturday. It has attracted scientists, researchers, and science journalists from 74 countries across the globe.
