Kailahun-community Radio: A model for regional cooperation

In an effort to encourage peace and unity in Sierra Leone's Manu River region, SFCG has initiated the Kailahun community radio project, which will serve as a forum for sharing information and generating discussion among the region's diverse population. The cooperation driving this programme's success is a model for how communities can learn to work together to promote social cohesion.

Beginning with Kailahun District Development Foundations' donation of the land for the radio station, community participation has defined this project. Local youth groups cleared this land using donated tools, paving the way for ex-combatants to build the station. To ensure that the radio's programming will address pertinent issues, SFCG conducted an extensive survey of the region's stakeholders.

In order to generate enthusiasm for Radio Kailahun, SFCG has invited local musicians and artists to produce the station's theme song and to help write the scripts for the dramas and soap operas that will be an important part of the station's message. Steady Bongo, one of Sierra Leone's most popular musicians, will help launch Radio Kailahun by playing in an opening-day concert celebrating a community's commitment to peace and progress.