Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
THE Government has pledged continued support for community radio stations to enhance their sustainability and effectiveness, recognising their critical role in providing early warning systems and disseminating vital information in the face of climate change.
Speaking at the World Radio Day commemorations held at Lyeja Community Radio in Hwange District yesterday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, in a speech delivered on his behalf by his deputy, Dr Omphile Marupi, emphasised the indispensable role of radio in bridging information gaps and empowering communities.
“We are living in interesting times when the world is undergoing rapid technological innovation and environmental transformations that are impacting human lives. It is not by coincidence that this year’s celebration is running under the theme, ‘Radio and Climate Change,’ which has been localised to ‘Radio and Climate Resilience in Zimbabwe,’” he said.
The minister underscored the role of radio in shaping public discourse and enhancing communities’ preparedness for climate-related disasters.
“Radio stations act as early warning systems, providing crucial alerts to communities about impending natural disasters. By broadcasting weather updates, emergency procedures, and evacuation plans, radio plays a vital role in saving lives and reducing the impact of climate-related disasters,” he said.
Dr Muswere reiterated the Government’s commitment to fostering media diversity and inclusivity through ongoing media reforms that promote access to information, particularly in rural communities.
“I want to applaud His Excellency, Dr ED Mnangagwa, for creating an enabling environment for media plurality and diversity through media reforms that have resulted in the establishment of more newspapers, radio, and television stations.
“This has worked well in reducing the information divide between urban and rural communities,” he said.
As part of efforts to ensure that no one is left behind, the Second Republic has so far licensed 14 community radio stations across the country, aligning with its broader vision of universal access to information.
Speaking at the same event, Unesco Director-General Ms Audrey Azoulay hailed radio as a crucial tool in global efforts to combat climate change.
“This year we are paying tribute to the different ways in which radio serves as a tool for adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate disruption in our rapidly changing world. At a time when such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common, we must recognise the critical and often life-saving role of radio,” she said.
“This is also why Unesco recently launched its Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change. This initiative will help promote and defend the integrity of information on climate change.”
The initiative seeks to go beyond research funding to include advocacy, diplomacy, and strategic action.
Vice-convenor of the Zimbabwe Association of Community Radio Stations (Zacras), Mr Luka Katako, lauded the Government’s commitment to opening the airwaves and called for collaborative efforts to enhance the sustainability of community radio stations.
“Your support is invaluable in ensuring that voices from every corner of our nation are heard, respected, and empowered. We encourage the Government to continue licensing more community radio stations to ensure that we can bridge the information gap that many communities still experience, as access to information is essential for development and disaster resilience,” he said.
“In the spirit of collaboration, we believe that the question of sustainability for community radio warrants our joint attention.”
Mr Katako said Zacras is open to working with the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services to establish effective sustainability models that ensure the longevity and impact of community radio stations.
World Radio Day is an international event celebrated annually on February 13. Designated by Unesco on November 3 2011 during its 36th General Conference, the day highlights the resilience of radio in linking communities, fostering free expression, and serving as a lifeline during crises.
Yesterday’s event was attended by senior Government officials, traditional leaders, stakeholders, and community members. Several broadcasters, including Zimpapers, AB Communications, and ZBC, also participated in the celebrations.
