Diamond FM at 10: Zimpapers Driving Growth & Impact

Zimpapers’ Manicaland-based regional radio station, Diamond FM, is celebrating 10 years of broadcasting excellence, community impact, and sustainable growth, marking a major milestone in the Group’s journey to build a resilient and future-ready media business.

Launched on 13 May 2016 by the late former Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Chris Mushohwe, Diamond FM began as a metropolitan commercial radio station with an initial broadcast radius of 40km around Mutare. Over the years, the station has expanded its footprint and influence, evolving into a dominant voice across the Eastern Highlands.

Reflecting on this milestone, Zimpapers Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. William Chikoto underscored the strategic importance of Diamond FM within the Group’s broader sustainability agenda.

“Diamond FM’s journey over the past decade is evidence of what sustainable media looks like in practice. It is not just about profitability, though the station has consistently delivered on that but about building platforms that remain relevant to communities, responsive in times of need, and adaptive to a rapidly changing media landscape.

“As Zimpapers, we are deliberate about investing in regional platforms like Diamond FM because they strengthen our national footprint while driving inclusive growth. The station’s success affirms our strategy of convergence, innovation and people-centred storytelling as key drivers of long-term sustainability.” He said.

By the end of 2016, the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe extended the station’s reach to a 100km radius, with additional frequencies later granted for Chimanimani, Chipinge, and Nyanga. This expansion, coupled with the implementation of Zimpapers’ converged newsroom model, enabled Diamond FM to break even early becoming the first regional commercial radio station in Zimbabwe to achieve profitability.

Since 2018, the station has maintained consistent profitability, contributing meaningfully to Zimpapers’ revenue diversification, financial resilience, and long-term sustainability strategy.

Station Manager, Mr Jabulani Mangezi reflected on the station’s journey, highlighting both growth and community impact.

“From its modest beginnings 10 years ago, Diamond FM has grown into the most listened-to radio station in Manicaland. Our journey has been defined by resilience, innovation, and a strong connection with the communities we serve.

“We have woven ourselves into the fabric of the Eastern Highlands from being an official media partner of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo to covering key national events such as the 2024 Independence Celebrations in Buhera and the 2025 ZANU PF National People’s Conference.”

One of the station’s most defining moments came in 2019 during Cyclone Idai, when Diamond FM transformed into a vital communication hub at a time of national crisis.

“During Cyclone Idai, Diamond FM became a station of resilience and hope. Together with The Manica Post, we mobilised a national response that connected affected communities with emergency services and government, while also driving a nationwide appeal that brought support from across Zimbabwe. We were honoured to host His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa on air during this critical period,” Mangezi added.

Beyond financial performance, Diamond FM’s decade-long journey reveals Zimpapers’ commitment to social sustainability building trusted media platforms that inform, empower, and support communities, particularly in times of need.

The station’s contribution also extends to provincial economic development, aligning with Zimbabwe’s devolution agenda by supporting Manicaland’s growth and visibility.

Reinforcing this broader vision, Mr. Chikoto added that “Sustainability for us goes beyond financial metrics, it is about relevance, responsibility, and resilience. Diamond FM embodies all three. Its success positions Zimpapers not just as a media house, but as a national institution that informs, connects and contributes meaningfully to development.”

As Diamond FM enters its second decade, the focus remains on digital innovation, youth engagement, and continuous talent development, ensuring the station continues to amplify local voices while adapting to the evolving media landscape.

At 10 years, Diamond FM is not just a success story, it is a blueprint for sustainable, impactful, and future-focused media under the Zimpapers brand.