Photo: columbia.edu
PANA
Cape Town, South Africa- South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation has launched a 24-hour online radio station aimed at enhancing communication on the country’s foreign policy.
PANA reported that Ubuntu Radio, which was launched Thursday, is accessible on the internet (www.ubunturadio.com), and is the first of its kind on the African continent.
Department spokesperson Clayson Monyela said the station is the first to operate under the auspices of a government institution, for non-commercial purposes. Its operating format is that of a “Talk Radio”.
Recognising that internet connectivity in South Africa and the African continent requires greater penetration, the station will exchange content for broadcast with identified media partners, including South African Broadcasting Corporation’s Channel Africa and community radio stations, for greater reach and influence.
The objective of Ubuntu Radio is to create a platform for exchange of views and opinions by various stakeholders, including opinion makers, think tanks, academics, scholars, students, diplomats and other key players in the field of diplomacy, and international relations.
By design, the targeted listenership is not limited to South African citizens, but includes the international community.
In choosing an internet-based radio station over a mainstream radio station, the Department said it was inspired by the results of extensive research conducted on the effectiveness, influence and listenership of internet-based radio stations throughout the world.
Research indicates that internet-based radio has gained momentum over the past 10 years, and its benefits are visible.
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