A VOICE FOR EVERY VILLAGE . . . Bridging the gap, one station at a time

Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

In a resounding endorsement of the Second Republic’s media reforms, Vice-President Dr Kembo Mohadi has hailed the liberalisation of Zimbabwe’s airwaves as a transformative step that is unlocking community voices and driving inclusive growth.

During a visit to Lotsha FM in Beitbridge — one of the 14 licensed community radio stations established under President Mnangagwa’s leadership — VP Mohadi underscored the administration’s commitment to broadening access to information as a cornerstone of national development.

VP Mohadi was visiting the station as part of his assessment of high-impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

The liberalisation of the airwaves under President Mnangagwa’s leadership marks a significant departure from the past, ushering in an era where community voices are not only heard but celebrated.

The Second Republic continues to prioritise access to information as a fundamental enabler of democracy, development and national unity. And with sustained support, Zimbabwe’s community radio stations are poised to remain powerful catalysts for inclusive growth, ensuring that no community is left behind in the march towards Vision 2030.

Speaking at the station, which is based in Beitbridge District and broadcasts largely in the TshiVenda language, VP Mohadi said community radio stations are crucial for bridging the information gap, ensuring citizens are informed in their local languages.

“They’re a vital tool for promoting national unity, democracy, and social transformation. In Matabeleland South, stations like Bayethe FM, Radio BuKalanga and Ntepe-Manama are doing remarkable work in promoting local languages and culture,” said VP Mohadi.

“Community radio stations in Zimbabwe have significantly improved access to information in rural and marginalised areas, reaching thousands of listeners through 14 licensed stations.

“They enhance democracy, promote local languages and culture, and provide vital updates on health and agriculture, fostering community participation,” he added.

“In addition, stations like Lotsha FM in Beitbridge show that community ownership, through local content, empowers residents to address local issues from an informed perspective.”

The Vice-President highlighted that President Mnangagwa’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe was taking shape, with community radio stations playing a key role in achieving Vision 2030.

During his visit to Binga in May 2023, President Mnangagwa was interviewed by Twasumpuka FM on his arrival for the National Cultural Month launch at Kwariyangwe High School in Binga. Matabeleland North Province has Twasumbuka Community Radio Trust (Binga, Kamativi Siabuwa); Mbembesi Development Trust, trading as Ingqanga FM; and Lyeja-Nyayi Development Trust that covers Hwange and Victoria Falls.

These stations provide timely information on health, education, and agriculture, and give a voice to marginalised groups.

VP Mohadi also emphasised that the Government’s commitment to broadening access to information is evident in its support for community radio stations.

“Lotsha FM is a testament to this, having received funding to set up and operate. With sustainable funding and editorial independence, these stations will continue to thrive,” said the VP.

“It has become a beacon of hope in Beitbridge and is a shining example of this initiative. Established through the Broadcasting Fund, this station has improved access to information in rural areas, empowering residents to address local issues.”

VP Mohadi also donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM and pledged to provide an operational vehicle to enhance the station’s efficiency.

The donation is expected to significantly boost the station’s capacity to serve the local community by improving content production and outreach, while promoting development and inclusivity in the border town.

VP Mohadi acknowledged the operational challenges faced by community radio stations, stressing the importance of sustainable support.

“As the Government, we are aware that operational challenges exist, but with sustainable funding, local capacity building, and editorial independence, this station will thrive,” he said.

VP Mohadi also urged stakeholders, including the private sector and the community, to play an active role in supporting the station’s long-term sustainability.

“However, as a community with stakeholders that have the zeal to develop their information space, we encourage collective efforts by the private sector, the community and the Government to improve the sustainability model at Lotsha FM,” said VP Mohadi.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening community media under the Second Republic, saying such platforms are key to achieving national development goals.

“Information dissemination through radio empowers urban and rural communities in the information age in several ways, which include providing timely and relevant information on issues like health, education, agriculture, and governance, helping communities make informed decisions,” said the Vice-President.

“Furthermore, community radios showcase local talent, culture, and languages, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion.

“Let me also highlight that radio gives a voice to marginalised groups, enabling them to share concerns and ideas, and hold leaders accountable.

“For example, Lotsha FM is now able to reach out to areas in Beitbridge East that include: Tshaswingo, Dite and the whole of Beitbridge town and those in Beitbridge West in areas that include Mapani, Masera, Mazunga and Sentinel.”
Speaking during the same event, Matabeleland South’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said the station (Lotsha FM) serves the Beitbridge community, providing vital information, promoting local culture, and fostering national unity.

“This is one of the four licensed community radio stations in our province, among them Radio Bukalanga (Plumtree), Bayethe FM (Matobo) and Ntepe-Manama (Gwanda), which is a testament to the Second Republic’s commitment to broadening access to information and promoting inclusive growth,” said Nguluvhe.

Lotsha FM board chairman, Mr Mekia Muyambo, appreciated the donation and visit by VP Mohadi to the radio station.

He said since its inception, the radio station had achieved significant milestones, including broadcasting in local languages that include TshiVenda, Sotho, Shangani, Ndebele and others spoken in the community while hosting community events, and providing critical information on health, education, and agriculture, among other current affairs-related issues.