KARONGI- Local authorities have announced that a community radio will go on air next month in Karongi District.
 
The International Research and Exchange Board (IREX), an international organisation, helped set up the radio
Yves Ningabire, the district’s Executive Secretary, welcomed the development.

"It’s an important opportunity for us to involve the general public in the development of the district since this radio is an important tool in communication,” he said.

Ningabire acknowledged that the much awaited radio station will help the population access a wide range of knowledge valuable for their social and economic well-being.

Robert Pearson, the president of IREX, re-affirmed his organisation’s commitment to improve the media industry in the country.

"We are committed to provide all the necessary requirements that will enable the population to get maximum benefits from the radio station,” he said.

Pearson cited new and modern technology, management and editorial skills as some of the immediate goals that will help the station get to its feet.

He added that IREX has over 20 media projects worldwide, including two community radio stations in Rwanda, located in Gicumbi and Karongi districts.

Protais Nyamurinda, the chairperson of Isangano Association that will run the radio station, observed that it would promote participation of the local population in good governance and enhance democracy.

"Without a radio, there is no effective livelihood in terms of socio-economic development which is a big challenge to participation in good governance due to ignorance and lack of efficient communication channels,” Nyamurinda said.

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