German broadcaster Deutsche Welle began an eight-part series on Ebola targeting its listeners in West Africa starting November 19.
The series presents the facts on the virus and also address the myths and fears associated with it. The first installment had two African journalists share their own experiences, news agencies’ reports, scientific articles and social media discussions, according to the broadcaster.
“Although there are now various information campaigns, ignorance about Ebola is still widespread,” said Claus Stäcker, head of DW’s Africa Department. “This is fertile ground for rumors, uncertainty and fear.”
The special is initially being broadcast in English with later programming presented in French, Hausa, Kiswahili and Portuguese. Funding for this series comes from the Federal Foreign Office. Listeners in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Mali and neighboring states can hear it via shortwave, FM and mobile devices.
DW’s radio programming reaches more than 40 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa.
