#58 - Avoidable Deaths Network: Creative Art/Literature + Bangladeshi Chapter

Summary:

The first interview explores how creative expression, particularly poetry, storytelling, and other artistic forms, is used to raise awareness about avoidable deaths across sub–Saharan Africa. Patience Andrew, a leader within Custodians of African Literature and an advisory board member for the Avoidable Deaths Network, explains how campaigns have engaged young creatives through spoken word, short stories, photography, and performance to highlight issues such as maternal mortality, conflict, and public health risks. By combining creative literature with wider artistic practices, the initiative aims to humanise statistics, amplify lived experiences, and encourage young people to take part in advocacy and social change. Overall, it highlights the power of creative arts to educate, connect communities, and inspire action on important global challenges.

The second interview focuses on how awareness, education, and early warning systems are being used in Bangladesh to reduce avoidable deaths caused by natural hazards. Fatima Akter, a lecturer in meteorology and regional coordinator for the Avoidable Deaths Network, explains how the Bangladesh chapter works through universities to educate students, who then share this knowledge within their communities. Activities include public campaigns, media outreach, student marches, and practical support during disasters such as floods, where relief, health guidance, and safety information are provided. Emphasis is placed on forecasting, preparedness, and community engagement, with the aim of improving understanding of risks and ultimately reducing loss of life through informed action and local participation.

ADN website Link: https://www.avoidable-deaths.net/

Guests:

• Ms. Patience Andrew (Custodians of African Literature, Nigeria)
• Prof. Fatima Akter (University of Dhaka, Bangladesh)

Co-Hosts:

• Dr. Mark Ashley Parry (Northumbria University, United Kingdom)
• Dr. Haris Rahadianto (Lund University, Sweden)

Music:

“Sunset” by Kai Engel, available at ⁠Free Music Archive⁠, licensed under CC BY 4.0.