Build a radio station for peace in Sierra Leone

Over the last few months much work has been accomplished, although there is more to do before resuming regular broadcasting. Among the main achievements are:

1. Purchase of all equipment needed from a reputable firm in the Netherlands.
2. Customs clearing of all equipment purchased.
3. Established a volunteer task force of professionals with radio and broadcast experience.
4. Received commitment from the CCSL (Council of Churches in Sierra Leone) member communions to give financial support to Radio Shalom (via purchase of “annual shares” and a “one time gift”)
5. Broadcast studio established at CCSL premises. This includes soundproofing and the studio testing of all equipment by our volunteer engineers.
6. Signed an Article of Association and Memorandum with Master and Registrar Office in August related to our purpose, rights and responsibilities. This is needed to meet the application requirements prior to being assigned a radio frequency. We expect to be assigned the frequency before the end of September 2012 as per Independent Media Commission ( IMC) schedule.
7. Programs have been designed dealing with peace and security, religious discussions among faith leaders dealing with elections and civic responsibilities, women’s issues (health, reproductive health, women’s rights), panel discussions and “call in” sessions regarding road safety, family relationships and dynamics, youth issues (role in nation building, participation in development, education) etc.

 In the meantime, we are constructing tables / shelves / and other studio furniture for proper placement of the broadcast equipment; installing an air conditioning unit in the broadcast studio; setting up both antennae required – one at the broadcast studio in the CCSL office and the other at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation tower in Leicester Peak in Freetown.

Current challenges include generating further funding to enable us to complete the installations as well as selling advertising to support regular operational costs (electricity – fuel for generator, stationary supplies, regular maintenance of the equipment).

While we regard this as a unique opportunity to strengthen and broaden the ministry and prophetic voice of the CCSL, it has been a struggle. Payment of Customs Fees related to the importation of the equipment was a challenge. Faith-based organizations used to be exempted but that privilege no longer exists. Supervision of and reliance on a volunteer task force and juggling time schedules to accommodate them in light of the fact that we want to be “on line” for the elections (mid November 2012) has also been challenging. However, Radio Shalom is on the right track thanks to massive support and goodwill.

Links:

• waccglobal