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Reginald Chirenje
Youth Interactive Correspondent
Radio is the most accessible medium in the World, even among the disadvantaged groups in society.
As two in five people in less developed countries, radio still provides an effective platform for socialisation, education as well as entertaining those mostly in need.
Various young individuals nationwide joined the rest of the world on World Radio Day commemorations which took place on Monday 13 February 2023.
The celebrations were running under the theme “Radio and Peace” which highlights the role of radio in encouraging peace and avoiding conflicts.
The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) highlighted independent radio as a pillar for conflict preservation and peace building. Various local radio stations are putting emphasis on radio in conflict protection, peace building and support to independent radio.
“As young people we are living in an era where our daily routines are saturated with different media platforms competing for our attention and one of such platform is community radio.
Radio remains one of the best media platforms with a wider reach in terms of audiences. With a huge fan base listening to radio, one is able to send the message to a broader audience while still maintaining the target, ” said a young presenter of a local radio station who preferred not to be named.
She further said the young generation are able to discover new forms of agency, networking, collaborations and even trust through the use of radio.
In the process of radio production the youth became conscious of social issues and leads them to be responsible citizens of the society.
“Community and local radio stations do not only continue to be media for transmission of indigenous languages, cultures and worldviews, they also continue to be a primary medium to inform and communicate issues, which is a great service especially for rural communities where modern internet access is still lacking.
Radio holds a major significance worldwide as it amplifies the process of socialisation”, added Khumbulani Stanley Chidoti Bhebhe, a sociologist.
“Even with ongoing changes in technology and communication platforms, radio remains a constant and a much loved reliable friend as it continues to act as a life saver when disaster strikes or is anticipated”, said Tinashe Dickson, a medical social worker.
The majority of people are quite happy with the broadcasting developments which are being made by the Second Republic through the Ministry of Information and Publicity and Broadcasting Services, of widening broadcasting space.
The government has established many local and community radio stations nationwide since last year.
World Radio Day is celebrated on February 13 every year and is dedicated to spreading awareness about the power of the audio medium.
Online Reporter