Celebrating the Role of Radio in Bamenda on World Radio Day

Bamenda, a city full of movement, emotions, and dynamic experiences, is also made up of stories, struggles, and resilience. Bamenda wakes up each day to the sound of the radio. Whether it’s the sharp analysis on morning shows, the soothing melodies of Makossa, or the urgent crackle of breaking news, radio remains a key companion for the people of this conflict-stricken region.

“We are having a very challenging media landscape, especially in the last 8 years; not fewer than 10 radio stations have folded up, and this also means that many journalists have gone out of their jobs. This is very disappointing and frightening as well,” said Bakah Derrick,  National Vice President of the Cameroon Journalists Trade Union

On this World Radio Day, observed every February 13, journalists, broadcasters, and listeners in Bamenda take a moment to reflect on the power of radio, often described as a medium that has not only informed and entertained but also united communities in difficult times.

Whenever I step into the studio, I know I am not just facing a microphone, but I am talking to a mother preparing breakfast,  a taxi driver navigating the traffic and above all a student eager to learn. I therefore make the radio their companion,” Says Kebila Sylvester, a radio presenter popularly known as “I go die International”

A Lifeline Amidst Conflict

For over eight years, the Anglophone crisis in the North west and South West regions of Cameroon has disrupted lives. With limited internet access and frequent power cuts, radio has become the most reliable source of information.

“I have connected my radio to a solar system,” said a resident of Bamenda III. “I am now feeling good because I can get information from all the radio stations. At times I also call to give my opinion on some topics,” he added.

Local stations like City FM and Dream FM have stepped up, providing real-time updates and airing peace messages.

Giving a Voice to the Voiceless

Beyond news and politics, radio in Bamenda serves as a platform for the everyday person. Programs like the Pidgin news on various radio stations and The Frontline on City FM allow citizens to voice their concerns, debate government policies, and share personal struggles.

For Patricia, a trader at the Bamenda Main Market, participating in radio call-in shows is empowering. “Sometimes, I just call to talk about the price of tomatoes. It might seem small, but these discussions matter because they affect our daily lives,” she says.

The radio has also been a vehicle for advocacy campaigns especially in a challenging information ecosystem.

Kanda Honourine,  the Regional Coordinator of Association Civic Watch, a youth led organization which works in countering violent rhetorical online as well as offline said “the radio is a very important tool for us because it reaches the most inclaved areas. We use it to run campaigns on mitigating hatespeech and combatting climate change disinformation “

Challenges and the Future

Despite its impact, the radio industry in Bamenda faces significant challenges. Journalists work with limited resources, often under threats from both state and non-state actors. Equipment is outdated, and funding remains a major hurdle.

“The security situation has limited our coverage area,” said Afunui Espe Fouozong Juliette,  manager of one of Bamenda’s oldest private radio stations. “She says the epileptic electricity supply is costing them their equipment on a regular basis; meanwhile, almost all their sponsors have been displaced.

However, broadcasters remain committed. Some stations are experimenting with social media to engage younger audiences, while others are producing podcasts to document stories beyond the headlines.

A Call to Celebrate Radio

As the world marks World Radio Day, the people of Bamenda celebrate not just the medium but the voices behind the microphone, who are the journalists, presenters, technicians, and the unseen hands keeping the transmission alive.

In a city where uncertainty often looms, the radio remains a constant friend, a guide, and a lifeline. And for that, it deserves to be celebrated, not just today, but every day.

Mimi Mefo Info