Statement from the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services on the Commemoration of World Radio Day under the theme “Radio and Climate Change”
Fellow Gambians,
The Government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services joins the international community in commemorating World Radio Day which is celebrated on February 13th each year. This year’s commemoration under the theme: “ Radio and Climate Change” is a day that celebrates the power of radio and how it has the ability to bring people together, inform, educate and entertain. Radio is one of the most accessible media platforms, and has the ability to shape society and culture globally.
In The Gambia, Radio Gambia was the first radio station established, and due to it being state owned, it is now part of the Gambia Radio and Television Services. Radio Gambia, along with the first private radio commercial station, Radio Syd, were the platforms that informed, entertained and educated our people for decades.
Today, as we commemorate this day, I am happy to announce that The Gambia, we have 45 radio stations out of which, 9 are Community radio stations which, are crucial in relaying information to populations living in rural Gambia. This, coupled with the capacity building programs facilitated by government for journalist in both public and private radio stations, in collaboration with its donor and bilateral partners, signifies the recognition of the significant role the radio plays in disseminating credible information to the public.
As we are all aware, climate change is perhaps the most pressing issue of our time, and one that requires immediate and collective attention from governments, civil society, and individuals alike. Rising temperatures, devastating natural disasters, and unpredictable weather patterns are having a disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities around the world, including those in our own country.
Therefore, this year’s theme: “Radio and Climate Change” recognizes and reconfirms the importance of radio and the crucial role it plays in supporting the efforts of government’s globally, including The Gambia, to address the challenges of climate change, with the view to reducing the vulnerability of our communities to climate related disasters. Moreover, it recognizes that the fight against climate change requires collective action from all sectors be it public or private, in combating climate change.
In this regard, I wish to seize this opportunity to call upon all media players; public and private, to prioritize raising awareness on climate change to help ensure that communities, especially those most at risk, are empowered to take proactive steps towards resilience. Also, I wish to reaffirms my Ministry’s commitment in fostering a conducive media environment, and support the Ministry of Environment, in its quest to address the root causes of climate, build resilience and to adapt to its impact.
I thank you for your kind attention.
