Staff Reporter

UNESCO Advisor for Communication and Information in Zimbabwe, Al Amin Yusuph, has applauded this year’s theme for World Radio Day, “Radio and Trust” saying it resonates well with the country’s efforts for media reforms in line with Vision 2030.

Speaking during the commemorations of World Radio Day, Yusuph indicated that due to advance technological developments, a lot of information has been distorted and people are being exposed to misinformation and disinformation, which has become a danger to society.

“Technological developments have empowered every citizen to become a reporter as a result we are having a dangerous trend of largely bad content circulating and being consumed at a much higher rate than positive stories about our past and present achievements.

“Enhancement of community connections through radio revival of culture and storytelling will revive our rich cultures and their inherent mechanism which guided the functioning of our societies,” he said.

Making reference to the just commissioned Avuxeni FM in Chiredzi, Al Amin Yusuph, elaborated on the effect of media to society.

“We focus on media development assistance because we understand the media’s potential to strengthen democratic and developmental processes which are participatory, transparent and accountable.  We also support community media as one of the mediums which is still trusted.

“Community radio is a tier which thrives through community participation, engagement and ownership and that presents the core of connectivity,” said Yusuph.

He further urged all radio practitioners in Zimbabwe to strive for programming excellence in order to build community trust and connectivity. He further highlighted that it is the community which is at the core of the survival of radio station, and its ability to attract and retain a large base of loyal listeners.

“Without a large base of loyal listeners your sustainability will be at stake, the community needs to trust you, for you to connect them,” Yusuph concluded.