Vice President Mohadi donates US$10k, pledges vehicle for Lotsha FM

VICE President Col (Rtd) Dr Kembo Mohadi has donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM community radio station in Beitbridge 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 made the announcement during a visit to the station as part of his assessment of high-impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

Lotsha FM, which promotes and preserves TshiVenda culture, is one of Zimbabwe’s 14 licensed community radio stations and plays a critical role in disseminating local news and information.

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

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

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

“As the Second Republic, we will ensure that community radio stations are supported so that they continue to fully carry out their mandates as we drift towards the attainment of Vision 2030,” he said.