In addition to various health complications, she said she experienced psychological scars. Given the delicate subject matter, Otieno's approach is appropriately serious, with a touch of good-humored teasing. The interactive nature of the program provides callers with instant feedback, and serves to highlight areas where information is lacking or misconceptions exist, so that the Council researchers can further refine their messages. In addition to answering a question about side effects, which may include nausea, mild headaches, and occasional vomiting, Davy Chikamata, M.D., a Population Council gynecologist, explained that the method is not an abortifacient and will not work if a woman is already pregnant. The Nation Media Group's FM radio station broadcasts news, music, sports, and drama to an audience of about 1.4 million people in Nairobi and surrounding towns.
Plans are underway to expand coverage to other major towns in the near future.
Staff in the Council's Nairobi office work with Nation Media Group writers to develop material. The radio program represents the first time the Council has launched a dissemination effort designed to raise awareness and motivate people to engage in self-protective health behavior, notes Ajayi. The media company, one of the largest in East Africa, is acknowledged for its commitment to social causes and its attention to health issues. The newspapers provide another avenue for reaching those who may not have tuned in to the radio program. Promotional activities, such as the use of posters, T-shirts, and periodic radio and newspaper competitions, will further increase awareness of the show and its topics.