A ‘Journalists' Tea’ to reflect on the role of the press in promoting health in Togo

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Extract from the article: Santé-Education marked 1 May, Workers' Day, with a ‘journalists' tea’. Much more than a simple coffee break, the meeting brought together media professionals to discuss a common concern: the worrying state of health in Togo. The main objective of thi

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Santé-Education marked 1 May, Workers' Day, with a ‘journalists' tea’. Much more than a simple coffee break, the meeting brought together media professionals to discuss a common concern: the worrying state of health in Togo. The main objective of this convivial conference was to open a space for discussion and reflection on the important role that the press can and must play in educating and raising awareness of health issues among the Togolese population.

Togo is facing a number of health challenges, particularly those linked to non-communicable diseases. It's a cry of alarm shared by Santé-Education around a journalists' tea party, an initiative that has mobilised the fourth estate to get actively involved alongside health stakeholders. "In 2010, the prevalence of arterial hypertension rose from 19% to 27% by 2021. Diabetes has risen from 2.6% to 5%. Being overweight, the breeding ground for many diseases, has risen from 15% to 30%. These figures highlight a significant deterioration in the health of the population. Maternal mortality, at 399 deaths per 100,000 live births, is also a cause for serious concern, putting Togo far short of the sustainable development targets of less than 70 deaths. The health situation in Togo calls for concerted action, and the role of the press is fundamental in bringing about change", emphasised Gadiel Tsonyadzi, journalist and columnist for Santé Éducation.

The press: an essential player in shedding light on health issues

Public education on health issues is currently inadequate. It is therefore vital to continue informing and educating the Togolese people about health issues, in order to encourage a personal commitment in which everyone understands their role as being primarily responsible for their own health.

According to Basile Miganké, Director General of Sante-Education, "health must be the primary focus of communication, and no people can develop without perfect health. People need to be educated about good health practices if they are to become aware of them". The Togolese press therefore has a clear mission: to organise itself and act, in collaboration with government initiatives, to amplify its informative and educational impact, in order to contribute to the improvement of general well-being.

Esther KOLANI