February 13, 2018

Radio is still king

located:	Haiti, Sierra Leone
editor:	Bob Koigi

With impressive penetration of ICTs and the remarkable steps made in bridging the digital divide, especially in developing countries, radio as a traditional mode of communication still reigns as millions rely on it to keep up with global happenings, for education as well as entertainment.

As the world this year marks the seventh edition of the World Radio Day, there is much to reflect and celebrate about this modest and simple platform that has stood the test of time to remain the most venerable and powerful communication tool for over 100 years.

From offering timely intervention during the Haiti earthquake, the Sierra Leone mudslide disaster and the West Africa Ebola pandemic, to being a trusted learning tool for hundreds of thousands of children in schools, radio is among the greatest gifts history has ever bequeathed mankind.

Rural communities and vulnerable populations, including those in hinterlands, the disabled, youth, women and the poor have found their say and space in the global arena through contribution to public debate, regardless of their education background and social standing, thanks to the powerful radio.

It has positioned itself as the ubiquitous meeting point for both rich and poor by airing the views of both, and in the process bringing them together while aiming to foster a positive dialogue for change.

As technology fast evolves, it is indisputable that radio is here to stay and is the only tried and tested medium that doesn’t segment its audience but rather has room for all the global citizens.

In the words of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, “In an era of dramatic advances in communications, radio retains its power to entertain, educate, inform and inspire. It can unite and empower communities, and give voice to the marginalised.”