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If we are what we eat, then Zimbabweans are getting to be more Zimbabwean by the day. Thanks to the Live Well Zimbabwe Program.

Listeners feedback on the nationwide radio outreach campaign say that they are discovering the benefits of eating healthy local foods and enjoying the experience of experimenting with traditional recipes.

“We used to think that eating fancy shop foods was a sign of progress and status. But after listening to the radio show, I now know that it is better to eat what we grow ourselves. You can avoid problems like high blood pressure, cancer and diabetes,” one listener shared.

Others send images of their prepared meals and share about how they are using locally available foods to create delicious recipes.

Many credible studies have shown direct linkage between consumption  of  processed food and the rise of non communicable or lifestyle diseases. These have become Zimbabwe’s biggest killer with cancer and hyptertension among the top culprits.

The Live Well Zimbabwe programme, a Ministry of Health and Child Care and UNICEF initiative is a radio educational campaign which is in its second phase after a highly successful launch in 2020.

With a reach of around 1,5 million listeners across five stations, the programme is helping hundreds of thousands across the country make better lifestyle choices.

In a country where access to health facilities for the majority is limited by distance and or cost, the programme is now a virtual consultation opportunity that many are utilising.

These are some of the questions that male and female listeners ask through live call ins or social media platforms during the interactive radio programs.

• Are pregnant women permitted to eat bananas?
• At what stage should a couple stop engaging in penetrative intercourse when the woman is pregnant?
• What makes a woman crave certain foods and totally reject others during pregnancy?
• Is anaemia in pregnancy caused by supernatural means where some unseen agency drinks the blood of a pregnant woman?

Health experts who are guests on the show then answer in real time and engage with follow up questions. Other listeners also come up with their own input, creating a space where everyone is empowered to take agency over their health.

By using local languages and thereby bringing information to all, the program effectively provides listeners and their families, friends and communities with information on different topical issues.

Listeners also get to share experiences and adopt recommended practices and behaviours, thereby influencing others to adopt healthier living options.