As Terekeka prepares to unveil its first-ever community radio station, local leaders, partners, and residents are rallying behind this milestone initiative aimed at fostering civic engagement and community development.
In the lead-up to the official opening of Terekeka Community Radio, 15 aspiring journalist, seven women and eight men, from all ten Payams of the county have completed an intensive 11-day training program.
During the opening of the training, Terekeka County Commissioner Emmanuel Loku emphasized the urgent need for development in the area and urged stakeholders to work together toward progress.
“Terekeka is far behind in terms of development,” Loku said. “We need development in Terekeka County, and I urge the community and our partners to work together to make this happen.”
Commissioner Loku highlighted that the new community radio station would play a critical role in addressing challenges faced by residents by providing a platform for information sharing and dialogue.
The training and station launch are supported by Salam Junub, alongside international partners such as the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). JICA representative Wudu Dickson, a key supporter of the initiative, commended the community’s dedication.
“I congratulate the people of Terekeka for establishing this community radio,” Dickson said. “Please ensure it stays on air. It belongs to you.”
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to the success of the station. Mogga Emmanuel, Director General at the Central Equatoria State Ministry of Communication and Information, reassured trainees that state support would continue.
“This radio is here for you,” he said. “Those who brought it will eventually leave, so the community must take responsibility for running it. The ministry will support the radio to keep it operational.”
Until now, Terekeka was the only county in Central Equatoria State without a community radio station. Local leaders emphasized the importance of learning from neighboring areas where community radio has strengthened public awareness and social cohesion.
Martha Paul, a women’s representative from Terekeka, highlighted the significance of the radio station in amplifying women’s voices and addressing issues affecting them.
“There are challenges that women are facing in the ten Payams of Terekeka County,” Paul said. “This radio will be an important tool for us to raise our voices, share our stories, and push for solutions. It will help us talk about the problems affecting women, starting from health, education, and many others. Women have a lot to say, and now we have a platform to say it.”
Salam Junub’s Project Manager Deborah Yar emphasized the broader impact of the initiative beyond media development.
“We have strived to bring people together, bridge divides, and build resilience,” Yar said. “One of our flagship programmes, ‘Take Tea Together’ (TTT), has brought together over 3,000 participants from diverse backgrounds to foster dialogue and unity.”
Salam Junub has previously implemented social cohesion and agricultural development projects in Juba, Mvolo, Yirol West, and Terekeka. With funding from KOICA and UNDP, the organization has provided training and resources to improve food security and income-generating activities.
Looking ahead to the station’s official launch, Salam Junub envisions Terekeka Community Radio as a key tool for civic engagement, particularly in light of the upcoming national elections.
“This station will be a vital platform for sharing information around the elections and beyond,” Yar said. “It’s a step forward for inclusive governance and informed civic participation.”
Salam Junub and its partners expressed appreciation to the local government and community members for their active role in making the radio station a reality.
