Persons with disabilities in Malawi may be tuning in to community radio, but their political voices are not adequately covered.

A recent study led by Dr Muyanga Ziba has raised questions about the role of community radio in promoting the political participation of persons with disabilities in Malawi. Using Mzimba Community Radio Station as a case study, the research found that while general programming for people with disabilities exists, there is no dedicated content focused on political engagement.

“There is a noticeable gap in programming that targets political inclusion,” said Dr Ziba. “The absence of dedicated political content for persons with disabilities means they are not fully represented in public discourse.”

The research focused on four constituencies, namely Mzuzu, Mzimba North, Mzimba Solola and Mzimba East, using listening clubs, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The study drew from theoretical frameworks, including disability theory, framing theory, participatory theory and muted group theory.

Participants reported facing systemic barriers to political participation, including abuse, social exclusion and a breakdown of traditional support systems. Some said even close friends and relatives discouraged their involvement in politics.

“Many of us are seen as incapable,” said one participant from Mzimba Solola. “Even if you speak up, people laugh at or ignore you.”

The study also highlighted how stereotypes are perpetuated through media messaging and the lack of tailored political content. Respondents called for media reform that moves beyond generalised information to targeted, inclusive content.

To address these issues, Dr Ziba recommends that Mzimba Community Radio Station adopt journalism practices rooted in ubuntu and Africanisation. “Western media models do not always fit our context,” he said. “We need approaches that are grounded in our values and communities.”

The study also advocates for journalism of attachment, urging reporters to connect with communities rather than report from a distance. A new participatory communication framework has been proposed to ensure that voices from marginalised groups in villages are not only heard but also represented.

Peace journalism and ubuntu journalism are further recommended to create an environment conducive to political participation by persons with disabilities.

“This is not just about airtime,” Dr Ziba said. “It is about access to platforms that shape democracy.”

Dr Ziba (Middle) with his supervisors Dr Quantro Mgogo (Left) and Dr Tshepang Molale (Right)