GICUMBI - Gicumbi residents are excited over the prospects of sharing their socio-economic views as their highly anticipated community radio goes on air.

Ishingiro Radio has for the past week been on a test run.

According to its Director, Alphonsine Yankurije, the radio will boost communication and help the population access a wide range of information to help improve their social and economic status.

"It's now time for residents to own this development; it is for them to get involved in the direction of the district,” said Yankurije.

"We have so far registered 30 volunteers who will feature in various talk shows such as agriculture, education, health, among others”..

She added that the radio would also promote the participation of the local community in good governance and enhance democracy.

The Ishingiro Radio follows close to the heels of the recently launched Karongi Community Radio.

Both are established with funding from the US government through the International Research and Exchange Board (IREX), an international media organisation with various projects worldwide.

Some residents, who spoke to The New Times, said the radio was long over due.

"We are very thankful for the radio. It will give us a chance to debate some government policies,” Deodonne Nduwimana said.

"I hope it will give us space to address issues affecting us here in the district,” said Jean Pierre Nzabamwita, another resident.

Ends