STArTInG A LOCAL RADiO stAtiOn - Nai

HOW TO USE THIS MANUALThis manual describes the process for starting a local radio station—the organization of community supportand planning, equipment needs, programming strategies, business growth and sustainability andjournalistic ethics and standards. This manual does not insist that you follow a set of rules to start andoperate a station. But it does offer important guidelines about what things you might think about, whythey are important and how you can learn from the experiences of other communities in other parts ofAfghanistan and the world. There’s information in this manual for community supporters, station managers,reporters, technicians and other workers, and you can give copies of this manual to them.You might choose to read every page of this manual, to become an expert on its contents, guidelinesand tips. OR, you may consult this manual from time to time when necessary. Whatever your style, and nomatter where you live in Afghanistan, this manual can guide you through the basic steps of creating andmaintaining a radio station that will become part of your community’s culture. Of course, you and yourcommunity are unique, and your station will be new and unique. Best wishes for success on your journey.This manual is divided into seven sections:Section one covers the first steps for establishing a radio station, such as developing the station’s mission,creating an organizational structure, the roles and responsibilities of people essential to operating astation, and getting your broadcasting and frequency licenses.Section two is a guide for choosing the location of your station, designing a studio and selectingequipment.Section three offers tips on the recruitment and placement of staff and volunteers, how to discuss workperformance and negotiate conflicts among workers.Section four focuses entirely on understanding community radio—what it is, its advantages for thecommunity and how it can be organized.Section five describes how to create interesting and informative radio programs. This section includes adiscussion of radio as a medium, programming ideas, and tips on how to decide whether your programsmeet the needs of your community.Section six explains good financial management, gives guidelines for creating a business plan, offersmarketing tips, and templates that can be used for financial reporting.Section seven has two parts. The first part outlines crucial topics in ethics, including principles for ethicalprogramming and conduct. The second part gives important information on Afghanistan’s Mass MediaLaw.STARTING A LOCAL RADIO STATION: A MANUAL FOR AFGHANISTAN7