Women’s Voices on the Evolving Landscape and Impact of Kenyan Radio
AMWIK recently hosted a thought-provoking discussion space exploring the multifaceted impact of radio. The event delved into the medium’s past, present, and future, examining its profound influence on shaping lives and driving conversations.
Seasoned broadcaster Toepista Nabusoba, her voice a testament to over three decades of experience, graced the event as a speaker. Her opening remarks painted a vivid picture of radio’s past, transporting listeners back to a time of “hefty recorders, cumbersome to carry yet instrumental in capturing the stories of a nation.” A touch of nostalgia colored her voice as she reminisced about these early days, highlighting the stark contrast between those “hefty recorders” and the “accessible and interactive platform” of radio today.
Yunia Amunga, a radio presenter at Capital FM, shared her journey, drawing inspiration from media icons such as Anne Wafula and Catherine Kasavuli. Despite lacking formal training, her unwavering determination and passion propelled her into the radio industry, where she carved her own path to success.
On the other side of the spectrum, Dr. Jane Thuo, AMWIK Board Chair and development and communications consultant, underscored the transformative influence of radio. From addressing critical social issues like HIV/AIDS to fostering behavioral change, radio has not only adapted but flourished, transitioning from a traditional format to the dynamic digital medium it is today.
Driven by a desire to bridge the knowledge gap, Irene Nyanzi, a radio presenter from Akamba FM narrated how she uses community radio as a tool to educate people on crucial topics like aflatoxin contamination and gender-based violence (GBV). Despite her dedication to commun ity radio, her journey, however, was not without its challenges. Gender bias and resistance from management were just some of the hurdles she faced, yet her unwavering dedication transformed lives, empowering her community and proving the immense power of radio to uplift and inform.
As the conversation delved deeper, a shared vulnerability emerged. Toepista and Irene, echoing the experiences of many women in the field, spoke about the struggle for equal representation in leadership positions and the subtle, yet insidious, forms of harassment they encountered.
Mary Kiio further emphasised the additional threat posed by the digital age, highlighting the prevalence of online harassment faced by female journalists. She urged her colleagues to embrace digital security tools, empowering themselves to navigate the complexities of the online world.
However, amidst the challenges, a spirit of resilience shone brightly. Irene’s “don’t care” attitude towards online negativity served as a testament to the unwavering determination of these women. Toepista, ever the optimist, emphasised the need for adaptation and collaboration, urging them to embrace new media forms like citizen journalism and adapt to the changing audience dynamics.
The discussion underscored the enduring power of radio as a platform for amplifying marginalised voices and fostering community engagement. The women on this virtual stage, each with their unique story, served as powerful reminders of the impact radio continues to have, even in this age of digital disruption.
Recognizing the young generation’s creativity and resilience in the face of stiff competition, the speakers and AMWIK, pledged to continue fostering a space where women’s voices could not only be heard but amplified, ensuring that the legacy of these pioneers continues to inspire generations to come.
Article by Iman Masud, AMWIK Intern