Communications programmes have a proven record in bringing about behaviour change in health and environmental projects with examples found in fields such as family planning, nutrition, maternal and child health, HIV/AIDs and sexually transmitted diseases. A well-conceived communications programme for the phase-out and avoidance of POPs can be similarly successful.
As part of AFSD’s strategy, a group of more than 100 farmers and others (mainly women and young people) were selected to take part in a workshop to raise awareness about the safe use of chemicals and the impacts of chemicals on health and the environment. A ‘train the trainer’ approach is being used to help maximise outreach potential among the communities.
The importance of communicating and engaging stakeholders and the general public is recognised by the Stockholm Convention. It states that Parties should consult their national stakeholders, including women’s groups and groups involved in children’s health to facilitate the development, implementation and updating of national plans. The convention also sets out a more detailed set of goals involving information dissemination, public participation, training, education and public awareness. This provides a framework for national and local action.
The project has highlighted the need for action on several fronts including:
- Develop a communications strategy and dialogue at a national level to include disseminating information regarding legally binding instruments including the Stockholm Convention and National Implementation Plan;
- Gain institutional technical assistance and knowledge on best practices for managing POPS;
- Shift the focus from toxic pollutants to organic solutions; conserve and manage seed resources.
- Provide appropriate training material tailored to Mozambique’s needs and circumstances;
- Develop chemicals inventories together with the suppliers;
- Develop a full proposition for a sustainable food production and consumption model across the value chain;
- Understand the benefits of limiting the use of chemicals and POPS, removing barriers, and collaborating among resource users;
- Increase awareness about climate change and resilient crops (such as cassava roots) and promote the value chain.