Public Relations practitioners have been challenged to relay information that is productive and beneficial to the country’s development.
Secretary to the President, Dr. Justin Saidi, made the remarks on Thursday during the opening of a three‑day Public Relations Annual Conference in Salima District, which is also commemorating 10 years of existence.
Dr. Saidi emphasized that effective communication remains a cornerstone for national progress and urged practitioners to uphold professionalism in their work.
He stressed that communication is central to leadership, explaining that it defines how institutions are perceived, builds public confidence, and shapes the way citizens interact with their leaders.
According to Dr. Saidi, it is through communication that trust is established, crises are managed, and organisations gain and maintain legitimacy.
“Communication should never be treated as secondary, but rather as an integral part of leadership itself,” Saidi said.
Meanwhile, Public Relations Society of Malawi (PRSM) Board Chairperson Baldwin Chiyamwaka noted that the society has grown over the past decade and contributed to various spheres of the country’s development.
He added that PRSM is looking forward to continuing its role in promoting national development through a National Branding Strategy aimed at attracting investors and tourists.
The event has drawn Public Relations and Communications Officers from diverse organisations under the theme “A Decade of Influence: Advancing Professionalism and Impact in Strategic Communication.” The conference will run until Saturday, 3rd October.
By Henry Mlelemba