Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
THE Second Republic has completed a transmission tower in Matobo District, expanding radio coverage across an 80-kilometre radius, significantly improving access to broadcasting services in Matabeleland South Province.
For the first time since independence, communities in the area can directly access local radio stations, marking a major milestone in access to information and communication services.
“It is very important to listen to our radio stations because they inform and educate us on important issues. We are extremely grateful to Government for bringing radio services here,” a resident said.
“We are happy that we can now access our very own radio stations on our mobile phones. We can now tune in and listen to news on the go,” a listener said.
“We are grateful to Government for this development because we felt neglected. Instead of listening to our stations, we would tune into foreign radio stations. Even here at the shopping centre, you can feel the infectious vibe of the local radio stations that young people can access on the go,” Chief Mayenga Fuyane said.
With Radio Zimbabwe and National FM now available in the area, Transmedia has launched an awareness campaign encouraging residents to download the ZBC application to access additional radio stations and television services while further expansion continues.
“This tower was constructed by Transmedia working hand in hand with the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services. This development is going to make it easier for us to bring TV services. At the moment, we have two services running. We have Radio Zimbabwe on 102.6 and National FM on 95.8. These two stations have a coverage area of around 80 kilometres radius, depending on the terrain.
“Our plans are at an advanced stage to bring the remaining stations. This tower is going to help the community a lot through infrastructure sharing. School children are going to benefit a lot from this tower. This initiative speaks to the Second Republic’s commitment to advancing inclusive development,” said Transmedia Corporation Senior Engineer Luckson Sithole.
Communities in the area can now access National FM on 95.8 and Radio Zimbabwe on 102.6 frequencies, marking a major step towards improved access to national broadcasting services.
