Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO) says journalists play a critical role in raising awareness on climate change issues.

The Executive Director for YONECO MacBain Mkandawire made the comment ahead of the 2018 Green Media Awards in which the organization has sponsored the energy and green economy categories under the Go Green project.

The ceremony which is scheduled for April 12 has been organized by the Association of Environmental Journalists in Malawi (AEJ).

Mkandawire said YONECO has sponsored the media awards as a way of recognizing journalists who are doing well in reporting about green and inclusive energy.

He said the ceremony will also help to create interest and awareness about green and inclusive energy

“A lot of people will learn about that and will also learn where to get materials for the renewable energy to ensure that we contribute towards reduction of environmental degradation through the use of fossil energies,” he said.

Mkandawire said through the Go Green project, the organization is helping communities to embrace alternative sources of energy and renewable energy as one way of helping them to adapt to effects of climate change.

Meanwhile Mkandawire has disclosed plans to support the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi awards in future.