Veteran radio broadcaster tackles drug abuse

ON World Radio Day, veteran broadcaster Leander “Leekay” Kandiero will embark on a drive to various cities and towns around Zimbabwe, visiting radio stations to raise awareness on drug and substance abuse.

Dubbed “Dump The Drugs Drive Cast”, the journey will start on February 13 and end on February 15.

World Radio Day is celebrated annually on February 13.

This year’s theme is “Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating”.

The day is dedicated to spreading awareness on the power of the audio medium.

In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Kandiero said: “I decided to do something on World Radio Day, and what came to mind is the ugly and serious drug abuse problem.

“I have been a broadcaster for 23 years. I know the power of radio, and I have made connections in the industry.”

With his vast experience in the radio industry, Kandiero said he will leverage on the power of radio for collective action in a bid to end drug abuse.

“Zimbabwe now has 39 radio stations, including public, commercial and community, as well as campus radio stations.

“So, to celebrate that achievement and put it to good use, I decided to do the drive, which will be a real drive in my car from station to station starting in Mutare. I will drive to Nyanga, Harare, Gweru and then Bulawayo,” he said.

He said Diamond FM in Mutare will be his first stop, before proceeding to Nyangani Community radio station in Nyanga, Star FM, ZiFM and Pachikomo Campus radio station (University of Zimbabwe) in Harare.

He will then proceed to YaFM and 98.4 FM radio stations in Gweru, then to SkyzMetro FM and the National University of Science and Technology’s campus radio station in Bulawayo.

“Each stop will be about 10 minutes talking about drugs and substance abuse. I want to speak to young people who have not indulged, parents who are not taking this seriously and young people who want to stop drugs,” he added.

For the “Dump The Drugs Drive Cast” to be a success, Kandiero outlined some of the items he needs to be assisted with.

“The journey requires a reliable vehicle, which is strictly for use during the campaign, live streaming equipment, video and photography services (US$400), fuel (300 litres of petrol), tollgate fees (US$64), accommodation (US$200), food (US$100) and incidentals (US$100),” he said.