The inclusiveness of the community in community radio: an investigation into the programming of Radio Turf.

Abstract

For the purpose of this study, community radio is best defined by Day (2009), O’Brien, and Gaynor (2012) as a broadcasting service that is owned by the community, runs in the local language, and permits grassroot communities to engage in management and programming. It is a form of media that empowers local communities by providing a platform for their voices, fostering participatory dialogue, and promoting social cohesion (Moyo, 2016). According to Kumar (2004), community radio is a useful tool for both economic and social development as well as a source of revenue for participatory communication. The study focused on community radio station programming and the inclusion of the community in the programming. Upon close inspection, most community radio stations have their programmes lined up and are airing like those in the commercial sector. The main objective of this study was to determine whether community radio stations involve community members in the programming and operation of shows. Using Radio Turf as a case study, this study attempted to answer how, if at all, the station involves members of the local community. Considering that a research methodology aids in solving a research problem in a systematic and or professional manner, the researcher used a qualitative approach to gain a clear understanding of the community’s inclusion in the selected station’s programming. Since qualitative research is used to gain an understanding of the reasons, motivations, views, and opinions toward a research problem or to aid in the development of an idea, the researcher conducted in-depth interviews with three(3) executives from the station and administered twenty(20) qualitative questionnaires to collect rich data for the study. The findings of the study reveal a significant disconnect between the station’s programming and the participatory ideals which are central to a community radio. While Radio Turf maintains the structural elements of a community radio station, it fails to engage its audience meaningfully in the creation and management of content. The study concludes that with recommendations aimed at improving participatory mechanisms to enhance community participation, ownership, representation and development through local broadcasting.