Our Services
What We Do
01.
— Enhance Science Awareness:
We simplify complex scientific concepts into easy-to-understand stories and messages, making science accessible to all.
02.
— Foster Engagement
By organizing media science cafés, we strengthen and expand the engagement between journalists, scientists, and advocates in science-related fields.
03.
— Training and Capacity Building
We collaborate with stakeholders to fund and foster training among communicators on science writing, ensuring accurate and effective science communication.
04.
— Regional Interaction
MESICA provides platforms for regional interaction among journalists, scientists, and advocates, promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
05.
— Information Hub
Serving as a focal point and hub of information and expertise in health and development issues, we advocate for accurate, balanced, and development-friendly communication of science.
What We Care For!
The Power of Science Journalism: COVID-19 Misinformation in Zambia
During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation spread rapidly across Zambia, leading to vaccine hesitancy and skepticism. However, Zambian science journalists, trained in accurate science reporting, played a key role in debunking myths. Through platforms like the Media Science Café, journalists engaged directly with scientists and public health officials, translating complex vaccine science into easy-to-understand language. This effort significantly improved vaccine uptake in key communities.
HIV Prevention and the Role of the Media
In Zambia, media played a crucial role in the promotion of HIV prevention strategies such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and the Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U) campaign. Journalists who participated in science communication training programs worked closely with researchers and healthcare advocates to provide accurate, stigma-free reporting on HIV/AIDS. As a result, more individuals became aware of new treatment options, and community-level discussions on prevention increased.
Fighting Malaria with Science Communication
Malaria remains one of Zambia’s major public health concerns. Despite available prevention methods such as insecticide-treated nets and new malaria vaccines, misinformation has hindered effective control. By training journalists on how to accurately report malaria research and engage with communities, the Media Science Café model has helped improve public trust in malaria prevention programs.
The Rise of Citizen Science Journalism
A growing number of Zambian journalists are taking an active role in science reporting through investigative journalism. In one case, a local journalist uncovered unethical medical trials that were taking place without proper informed consent. The journalist's investigation, backed by scientific experts, led to increased regulatory oversight and policy changes to protect patient rights in Zambia’s healthcare sector.
