Gugulethu’s residents put their Faith in a radio station

Pensioners told Muthambi a radio station would help overcome their challenges

GUGULETHU residents say they need a community radio station of their own where they would be able to discuss factors like crime, drugs and education on a wider platform, compared to shouting on a loudhailer.

The more than 60-year-old township, which was established in the late 1950s, never had a radio station of its own before. Communications Minister Faith Muthambi told the group of about 200 residents that she would engage with network providers to ensure there is access to a radio station in the area. The residents told her that a radio station would enable them to voice their community needs on a wider platform. Muthambi was addressing about 200 residents during her visit at the Gugulethu Sports Complex, and she was accompanied by representatives from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) and Films and Publications Board (FPB) as part of the government public participation programme.

Muthambi said her department would engage with Icasa, the FPB and the MDDA to ensure that a radio station is made available in the area.

“Why has this old township not had a radio station of its own?” Muthambi asked, adding that she would engage with the relevant stakeholders and see to it that the area is connected and the community’s aspirations are met.

“I can see you really want a community radio station and the different stakeholders are here to listen to you. Icasa is here, so talk to them so that they provide infrastructure that will enable you to be connected,” said Muthambi.

Mainly pensioners attended the gathering and they told Muthambi a radio station would help overcome their challenges.

Nontuthuko Bambi, 55, said she was hopeful Muthambi “will help us”.

Simbonile Mdingi, 63, said a radio station would help with skills development and job creation among the old and young people of Gugulethu.

“My hope is that the radio station is launched in my lifetime,” he said.

Picture: BHEKI RADEBE OPTIMISTIC: After engaging with Communications Minister Faith Muthambi yesterday, Gugulethu’s residents are hopeful that she will help them get connected via the airwaves.