Video Series Informs and Engages Zambia About COVID-19

JSI’s USAID DISCOVER-Health project led Zambia’s national COVID-19 communications response through the Zambian Partners Against COVID-19, under the leadership of the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI). The project ensures that the MOH and ZNPHI are the first and trusted sources of information for the public, and that accurate and timely information is available.

With this in mind, the project engaged Media 365, a local creative agency, to use human-centered design (HCD) techniques to rapidly gain insights into audiences and information gaps regarding the virus. There was a lot of misinformation and distrust amongst peri-urban groups about COVID-19, and they weren’t being reached in a manner that resonated with them. After workshopping scenarios with potential audiences, Media 365 developed a miniseries of four public service announcements informing and engaging people about symptoms, preventative actions, and the importance of verified information. The HIV video, inspired by an animation from Africaid Zvandiri, takes an empowering look at how people living with HIV can manage during COVID-19.

Follow Bana Gift as she adjusts to the new normal of running her market stall in the time of COVID-19.

In addition to continuing front-line health service delivery, USAID DISCOVER-Health has supported Zambia’s COVID-19 response by procuring emergency response supplies, improving preparedness and response in six provinces through both funding and technical assistance, and supporting the MOH and ZNPHI with risk communication and community engagement activities.

Watch all five videos here: USAID DISCOVER-Health COVID-19 Mini-Series