Build Africa hits the airwaves in Uganda
7 August 2009
It is impossible to overestimate the importance of radio as the predominant media for sharing the needs and experiences of rural African communities. Over the past few decades in rural regions of Africa, the growth of low-cost radio stations broadcasting from local communities has meant that many rural communities can now access information about issues both wide ranging and valuable, from developments in agricultural technology to weather and market news.
At Build Africa we are also utilising this most precious communication tool by setting up a series of community radio talk shows. Representatives from Build Africa and the District Education Departments recently co-hosted a programme focussing on community participation in schools and the importance of educating girls. The opportunity to phone in and raise questions or issues was readily taken up by community members, illustrating the fact that education is high on people's agenda. It was an extremely successful launch, with many callers praising Build Africa for its work, and we hope that the full programme of shows will help to raise greater awareness of education issues.