Christian TV has impact in Ivory Coast

Christian TV programs have great impact on viewers in Ivory Coast. This appears from a research under 1,178 respondents which is recently done by Media Research Institute by order of 3xM. 3xM supports the production and broadcast of two Christian TV programs in the West African country. “Deadly Honey” (Miel Mortel) questions the HIV/AIDS  problematic and “And your family” (Et Votre Famille) handles aspects of family life.

Change of behavior

Based on the results of the research the following can be calculated. From the 10.8 million people 4.3 million have viewed the program “Deadly Honey” at least once and 2.6 million watches at least once a week. From the total number of viewers 3.4 millions (77%) reported a change in behavior. 175,000 reported they have started reading the Bible, 37,000 have recently started to attend church and another 125,000 now attend church more regularly. More than half of the viewers have changed their sexual and relational behavior.
Reponses
The TV program “And your family” is watched by 14% of the people. From the total number of viewers 35% watches because the program answers their questions of life and death, while almost 20% said the program help them deal with their problems. Almost 52% stated they had more respect for others. This is very valuable in a country with a large variety of population groups.

Surprised

As well as 3xM as its partner relation PEMA/ACT are surprised about these results. “Responding to social needs seems a good entrance to reach people”, says International Director of 3xM Martien Timmer. “We thank God, Who shows us something of His Kingdom in this way. It stimulates us to continue to bring the Christian message through visual media!”

Recommendations

The research also gives valuable recommendations, like translation in one of the major tribal languages so that more people may understand the program. Click here for a summary of the report.

3xM

For nearly 30 years, the mission organization 3xM has partnered with churches and Christian organizations in producing and broadcasting television programs. More and more attention is given to broadcasts and aftercare via internet. The transference of knowledge is an important part of 3xM's mission. 3xM focuses primarily on countries where there are few Christians.