The Role of Health Communication Strategies in Promoting Sustainable Development. A Study of the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP)

Abstract

Development is a phenomenon that dates back to history. A country that is not developed is usually tagged as backward or primitive. Most often than not, health-related issues are not placed under the umbrella of development. Some limit development to the erecting of tall buildings, having a very good economy with a low inflation rate. This study brings to light the need to treat health-related issues as part of development. Findings from this research indicated that the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP) uses three (3) main health communication strategies to reach out to their audiences. These are: Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) which targets attitudinal change, Advocacy which targets the powers that be in a community, and finally, Social Mobilization which engages institutions, community networks, as well as social and religious groups/bodies. It is worth noting that when a country prioritises its health system and thrives to stabilize it, then development will not elude them.