Bridging the gap between scientists and the media when communicating about One Health

Athman Mwatondo, co-head at the Zoonotic Disease Unit in the Kenyan Ministry of Health, noted that ‘the mission of the ZDU is to establish and maintain active collaboration at the animal, human and ecosystem interfaces towards better prevention and control of zoonotic disease.’ He said the media café was an excellent way to showcase how both science and policy work in One Health. 

Samuel Doe Ouma, editorial coordinator for Health Business Magazine, said, ‘the interactive meeting between scientists and journalists enhanced my knowledge and capacity in reporting the One Health concept.’ Ouma added that the event improved his understanding of One Health and that he looked forward to impactful health and science reporting to enhance community knowledge, preparedness and capacity in managing emerging infectious disease. 

Bernard Bett, senior scientist and team leader of OHRECA, highlighted the important need for the scientific communities to bridge the gaps with journalists who report and advocate for the One Health work. ‘This media café was engaging and helped journalists better understand One Health approaches. We were able to dive deep to share disease specifics and address zoonotic disease in communities.’ 

Learn more about ILRI's One Health activities

Learn more about OHRECA

Photo credit: Media interview with Jimmy Smith, ILRI, director general, 2014 (ILRI/Paul Karaimu)