By Michael Kachitsa
Malawi local musician Lady Aika has signed a partnership deal with Oxfam Ibis-funded Civil Society Education Coalition. The deal was signed earlier this month. She will be advocating on behalf of the organisation on the fight for sexual health rights and education in rural areas,
According to a recent local news report, Lady Aika, real name Malaika Chikalimba, said that the campaign aligns well with her aspirations values and personal experience.
“I am motivated by my personal journey of dropping out and returning to school. This campaign reflects my values and passion for helping girls get a second chance on education,” she said.
In his remarks, Oxfam Ibis coordinator Richard Banda highlighted the power of arts and entertainment in reaching wide audiences. He said that the organisation has confidence that Lady Aika who is still a student will perfectly be a good ambassador.
“Entertainment can easily be used to foster social change and appropriately engage people at all levels. In addition, it is easier to deliver complex and sensitive issues using music which has no class biases as marginalised peoples views can also be heard.”
OXFAM’s Ibis campaign focuses on young girls in rural areas who face education, gender equality and health challenges. It advocates and encourage girls remaining in education, preventing and reducing school early drop-out rates. Accordingly girls in rural areas are the most affected.
