17 Feb 2025

The launch of frequencies for three private radio stations in Tati East constituency is a major communication advancement, area MP Mr Tlhabologo Furniture has said.

The frequencies launched in Tshesebe, Sekakangwe and Tutume by the Minister of Communications and Innovations, Mr David Tshere during World Radio day recently, are Duma FM, Yarona FM and Gabs FM.

Speaking after a radio talk show hosted by Duma FM station manager, Mr Donald Seberane  in Francistown recently, Mr Furniture said the significance of these radio frequencies lied in their potential to empower the community.

“They provide a platform for communication, information sharing, and development, ultimately contributing to improved well-being, economic advancement, and a more engaged and informed citizenry,” he said.

He said radio was a vital medium in areas without widespread internet access like his, and other rural and marginalised communities.

“By providing this direct, accessible communication tool, the three radio stations offer a crucial step towards improving the quality of life in Tati East. Residents of Tshesebe and surrounding areas will now access these three radio stations which were difficult to tune in before the launch,” he added.

He said the radio stations frequencies were likely to significantly improve the living standards of people in Tati East and beyond in several ways. Mr Furniture said they would improve access by providing crucial information about government policies, development initiatives, health updates, and agricultural advice.

“This access is vital for citizens to make informed decisions about their lives and participate more effectively in their communities,” he said.

Mr Funiture said lack of access to information limit opportunities. He said Radio fostered communication and collaboration within communities as it facilitated discussions on local issues, promote social cohesion, and build stronger relationships between residents and local leaders. This, he said, could lead to more positive community outcomes.

“Another benefit is that of economic empowerment as the radio can promote local businesses by advertising products and services, and by providing information about market opportunities. It can also facilitate access to financial literacy programmes that help people improve their economic standing. For example, radio broadcasts could provide information about agricultural subsidies or access to loans for entrepreneurs,” he added.

Another milestone benefit, he stated, was that a radio station itself might potentially create jobs in broadcasting, production, and administration.

  “The broader economic activity spurred by improved information access and community engagement could also contribute to job creation,” said Mr Funiture.

Meanwhile, the legislator told the talk show which featured mostly on illegal gold mining in the Matsiloje area about the 45 000 hectares of land acquired by government last year and that his constituency was far much behind in development.

He said the constituency required improved road networks, as it was an agricultural hub.
As for the acquired land, Mr Furniture said its distribution would accordingly address the needs of constituencies of Tati East, Tati West and Francistown.

Regarding illegal gold mining in the area, Mr Furniture said the current government was quite aware of the problem and that it would come up with intervention to address the challenge.

He said government was planning to build a police station equipped with enough police officers and supporting services, such as vehicles to increase police visibility in the area.

Mr Furniture said currently, the police in the area were thin on the ground, which led to them being overpowered by the smugglers who moved around in groups.

He said smugglers also posed a threat to the lives of the residents as they moved around carrying dangerous weapons to defend themselves and resist arrests. ENDS