STAFF WRITER
BINGA residents have expressed their gratitude to government for awarding their district with a broadcasting licence for a community radio station, a move they say will bring a positive impact to the district.
Twasumpuka and seven other community radio stations were recently licenced by the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ).
“Twasumpuka means we have developed, it says it all. The community has welcomed the new development. This is serious major development especially in information access as we know that it is critical for enhancing community development. It means we have an opportunity now to market Binga and its various natural resources in order to attract more investors in this growing district,” said Samson Sibanda, chairman of Binga District Residents Association (BDRA).
“We would like to thank government for recognizing BaTonga people, they have restored our dignity in a way.”
BAZ is expected to provide the licensed community radio stations with studio equipment but the stations have to raise the license fees.
Twasumpuka Community Radio Trust which has already started fundraising said it requires more than $90 000 registration fees.
Sibanda further said the radio licence will unveil an opportunity to interact as Tonga people.
“Information has been lacking within the Tonga people for decades, as a result the new radio station will also bring dignity to the BaTonga society as we will be broadcasting in our language. This means revival of our language through sharing of information. The radio will promote free flow of information, promotion of our culture and heritage as a minority tribe.”
He said radio will be an effective tool for economic development in the once marginalised district.
“We are very happy as a community as this will also promote unity and participation on all developmental aspects by all ward communities.”
Twasumpuka trustees recently held an inaugural meeting with stakeholders at Binga centre where it was resolved to form a steering interim fundraising committee that will mobilise resources to raise $93 890 licence fees. The money is due on November 16.
