Ronald Mpofu, [email protected]
Plumtree’s Community radio station Radio Bukalanga has embraced digital broadcasting, announcing the launch of its online streaming service in a move set to extend its reach beyond the Bulilima and Mangwe Districts.
The station, based in Plumtree, had until now been accessible only to listeners within its traditional FM coverage area, leaving followers in other parts of Zimbabwe and the diaspora unable to tune in.
The new platform is expected to bridge that gap.
In a statement, the station said: “Great news to our listeners! You can now listen to Radio Bukalanga on the T-Media digital platform. Stay connected to the voices, stories, programmes and conversations that matter to our community — at home, at work, travelling or beyond our FM coverage area.”
The notice also provided instructions for listeners to access the service through the T-Media application, available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store, or directly via the platform’s online link.
Station manager Yvonne Tshedu Buzwane said the digital transformation would strengthen ties between the station and the communities it serves, including the diaspora.
“The availability of Radio Bukalanga online marks an important step in strengthening our connection with the communities we serve, including those living beyond our traditional geographical reach,” she said.
She said the station’s audience extended well beyond Plumtree, Bulilima and Mangwe, with many listeners remaining deeply connected to their roots, language and culture despite living elsewhere.
“Our community extends far beyond Plumtree, Bulilima and Mangwe. We have people living in different parts of Zimbabwe and across the world who remain deeply connected to their roots, language, culture and communities of origin. Being online gives them an opportunity to stay informed, follow community conversations and remain part of the issues that matter back home, regardless of where they are,” she said.
Miss Buzwane also highlighted the opportunity for cultural preservation and the promotion of Tjikalanga, saying listeners with knowledge of the language, history and oral traditions could contribute content and participate in programming.
“There is also an exciting opportunity for cultural preservation and the promotion of Tjikalanga.
People with knowledge of our language, history, oral traditions and cultural heritage, including those living outside the country, can contribute content, share knowledge and participate in programming. In this way, our radio station becomes an even greater meeting point for preserving and celebrating our identity,” she said.
She added that the online accessibility would ensure distance no longer determined whether listeners could participate in conversations shaping their community.
“Ultimately, being online means that distance no longer has to determine whether someone can participate in the conversations shaping their community. It creates room for more voices, stronger partnerships and a wider sense of belonging. Radio Bukalanga is rooted in its community, but its conversations can now reach much further. We are creating more opportunities for our people, wherever they may be, to stay connected, participate and contribute to the development of home,” said Miss Buzwane.
