Implementation Reports on IPDC Projects Approved in 2009 - Unesco

PROJECT IMPLEMENTED BY THE DAR ES SALAAM CLUSTER OFFICE
NATIONAL PROJECT
TANZANIA: ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMUNITY RADIO FOR KAHAMA
DISTRICT
PROJECT 354 URT 5001
US$ 28 600
TYPE OF PROJECT
This project seeks to establish a Community Radio for Kahama District in the United Republic of Tanzania.
The immediate beneficiary target of the project are the 750,000 residents of Kahama District most of who are
farmers and pastoralists who have access to radio. Kahama District has limited access to printed media due to
poor infrastructure and illiteracy. There are only 2 radio stations which can be properly listened— a publicly
owned RTD and a private one, RFA—with limited receptions on other 2 radios—Clouds FM and Radio One,
both privately owned. Only 2 TV channels which are also confined to townships—Shinyanga and Kahama
towns, can be viewed without connection to satellite dishes. The immediate objectives of the project are to set
up a 300 watts FM radio for Kahama District and support to one week training to six members of staff (one staff
being at managerial level) and 5 volunteers of the community radio in organisational management, information
gathering, programme production and basic broadcasting skills.
IMPLEMENTATION
The approved work plan for this project foresees the implementation of the following activities:
� Construction permit sought from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority
� Recruitment of one Managerial staff with media background.
� Refurbishment of studio building and mast
� Procurement of 300 Watts and installation of FM broadcasting and production room equipment
� Recruitment of volunteer staff
� Source a local consultant to deliver training on Community Radio Organisational Management,
Information Gathering, and basic journalism training.
� One week Training of staff in organisation management, modern news gathering methods, programme
production and basic broadcasting skills.
� Preparation and production of Radio Programmes
� Broadcasting of the educational and developmental radio Programmes
� Establishment of learning resource centre and website.
RESULTS
An experienced Radio Manager with vast experience from the mainstream media has been recruited.
The Construction permit from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has been secured.
Refurbishment of the Community Radio Premises and negotiations with telecommunications companies to host
the Radio Transmitter is currently in progress. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority has a new
requirement restricting installation of FM transmitters in Community Radio Premises, most of which are located
within the built up areas, a requirement which necessitates the sharing of towers with already existing
communication providers.
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