Where satellite signal is rare and electricity unreliable,  for many communities in the global south, radio is the best means of communication for connection and staying informed about what is happening locally and around you.

In an era of dizzying technological advancement, February 13th continues to mark the importance of radio entering its second century of service as one of the most dependable and widely utilized forms of media in the world.  

Thanks to YOUR support, the power of radio has brought education and learning to the most marginalised.

From radio schools to reach children in isolated communities to awareness campaigns keeping communities safe through COVID-19 prevention and other publics health alerts – Radio projects have a massive impact and are vital source of information for many without smartphones and access to the internet. A daily challenge which would be unimaginable on this side of the globe.

Last year, we launched ‘GLOW’, a health and advocacy project in South Sudan aimed to tackle gender inequality and bring about people powered change to empower women and girls, breakdown stigma and develop allyship for lasting positive impact.

GLOW stands for Girls Learning Their Own Worth and is a two branched project, firstly tackling period poverty and the stigma around menstruation; and secondly, advocacy around puberty and relationships.

Outreach to youth has been amplified by radio, creating a safe and informed platform for young people to get knowledge around sensitive issues and a support system for their voices to be heard.

Emmanuel, communications officer with the Jesuit Development Office in Rumbek, South Sudan, has been leading a series of radio programmes, with his co-host Mary Henry focused on informing young people on the changes they are experiencing growing up. They have created a platform which has brought young people and parents together through common understanding and information which can help girls by way of menstrual health and support boys in breaking down taboos and creating champions of girls education.

As Emmanuel explains, “radio is a friend to everyone” and his outreach is making waves in communities near and far.

You can listen to Emmanuel and his thoughts on the project below: