Phase one rural frequency modulation project commissioned

THE first phase of the rural frequency modulation (FM) proj ect for 15 districts in the country for the people to easily access the Zambia National Broadcasting Services (ZNBC) radio One and Two stations has been commissioned by Information and media minister, Chushi Kasanda.

Speaking when she commissioned the launch of the installation of the ZNBC FM transmitters at the ZAMTEL tower in Kalomo at the weekend, Ms. Kasanda said government is determined to ensure equal access to information for all citizens regardless of where they live, their status or political affiliations.

The minister who was flanked by her Southern Province coun terpart, Cornelius Mweetwa, and all the three chiefs in the dis trict said the launch of the project is aimed at empowering people with information so that they participate effectively in national development as they can now have clear and access to the national broadcaster.

“This project is being implemented in phases and is expected to cover other areas around the country that do not receive the ZNBC signal. This is a clear indication of the government's de sire and determination to ensure equal access to information for all citizens regardless of where they live and it is also in line with the government's vision and mission to empower people with in formation so that they participate effectively in national develop ment,” Ms Kasanda observed.

The project to install the rural ZNBC FM radio transmitters in the 15 districts cost K7.2 million with works earmarked to be done between June and October this year, ZNBC director general, Malobela Lusambo disclosed. The 700 watts transmitters would cover a 60 to 70 kilometres radius from the transmission point.

And Mr Mweetwa said the development is welcome as the province boasts of being the bread basket of the country coupled with its tourism potential adding that people in the region should be abreast with the government's development agenda through the media.

The transmitters are to be installed in Maamba, Sinazongwe, Sinazeze, Chisekese, Chirundu, Lukulu, Mwandi, Nyimba, Isoka, Mporokoso, Senga Hill, Samfya, Kaputa, Chiengi and Kalomo districts.

And Chief Chikanta of Kalomo has appealed to the government to give more communication towers to the rural populace so that people are aware of the new dawn’s development agenda. He said this in a vote of thanks to appreciate the launch of the FM radio transmitters.