Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
ZIMBABWE joins the rest of the world this Friday in commemorating World Radio Day, and attention has turned to the growing impact of community radio stations in enhancing information dissemination across the country.
In Mashonaland Central province, Madziwa FM is emerging as a powerful local voice. Established two years ago, the station broadcasts within a 60-kilometre radius, transforming how information is shared across the district.
For many residents, Madziwa FM has become more than just a source of entertainment — it is now a vital communication hub.
Community members say the station has simplified communication, particularly in urgent situations such as reporting missing persons or lost livestock.
“The station is important to us because we rely on it for announcing missing persons or reporting lost livestock. In the past, we faced challenges travelling physically to resolve such matters, but it is simple now. This station has created new opportunities for us. We now know what is happening in our district and can even advertise our businesses. We are happy with Madziwa FM,” said one resident.
The station’s programming covers a wide range of community interests, including networking, disability awareness and sport, which has become a favourite among listeners.
Presenter DJ Shumba said audience feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I present programmes on community networking, disability issues and sport. People love these programmes, and I know this because they give feedback through calls or when we meet in the villages,” he said.
Acting Station Manager, Mr Webster Chasakara, expressed gratitude to the government for licensing community radio stations, noting that such platforms were previously unavailable.
“I want to thank the Second Republic for licensing community radios. We did not have that in the past, and we could feel the gap. These stations are responsive to the needs of the people. We want to continue growing and we need advertisers to support us,” he said.
As Zimbabwe marks World Radio Day, Madziwa FM stands as a testament to the power of community broadcasting in amplifying local voices, strengthening social cohesion and promoting development at grassroots level.
