KARONGI- Just a few weeks after a community radio (Isangano Radio) in Karongi District hit the air waves, residents are optimistic that the new radio will significantly improve their social and economic status.

Both the local leaders and the entire population are expectant that it will boost communication and provide a wide range of knowledge.

"It’s an important opportunity for us to be involved in constructive debates and discussions because it also promotes good governance,” Everest Ndahimana, an active member of Isangano Association, which established the radio station, said.

The project was set up with funding from the American Government though the International Research and Exchange Board (IREX) and the Millenium Challenge Cooperation ((MCC).

Presiding over the official launch of the radio on Friday, the Minister in charge of Cabinet Affairs in the Prime Minister’s Office, Protais Musoni, called for maximum utilization of the communication resources

"The decision to create the radio station is for the people to get a voice, a forum where you can express your views and ideas,” he said.

Musoni urged local leaders to engage the general public in the development of the district saying that this radio is an important tool in communication.

He revealed that the country has a total of 25 other radio stations with a projection of having even more to improve the media.

The US Ambassador to Rwanda, Stuart Symington, acknowledged that Rwandans are very committed and have a strong zeal to develop the country.

"It is very clear that the past of this country was characterized by many ups and downs, but the people are determined to get over that and establish a new future,” he said.

Symington noted that it would promote participation of the local population in good governance and democracy.

On behalf of IREX, Paul Bolap, said that with two months to go before the end of their contract with the government, the development of a professional media was on the right course.

Isangano Radio becomes the third community radio station in the Western Province with others located in Rubavu and Rusizi districts.

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