World Radio Day: The Role of Radio in the Hold My Hand Community

Radio has long been one of the most powerful tools for communication, connection, and change. On World Radio Day, we celebrate the incredible impact of this medium—particularly in the lives of children, caregivers, and families across South Africa. For many organisations in the Hold My Hand community, radio is an essential way to reach people, break down barriers, and inspire action.

Why Radio is So Powerful

Radio remains one of the most accessible forms of media. It reaches people in cities, towns, and rural villages, offering a connection to information and resources that might otherwise seem out of reach. In South Africa, where access to the internet or television is not universal, radio’s ability to broadcast in multiple languages and at low cost makes it indispensable.

This accessibility is why organisations in the Hold My Hand community still choose radio as an important channel for their work. From parenting advice to child health updates, radio makes it possible to connect with caregivers and communities where they are—whether they’re in a taxi, at home, or even out in the fields.

How Radio Connects with the Hold My Hand Community

The Hold My Hand campaign brings together organisations that share a commitment to improving the lives of children and adolescents. Radio is a key part of this mission for many, offering a space to:

• Empower Caregivers: Through relatable, practical advice, radio programmes help caregivers better understand how to support their children’s health, learning, and development.
• Amplify Children’s Voices: Children and adolescents can share their stories, ideas, and experiences on radio, ensuring that their needs and rights remain central to community and national conversations.
• Unite Communities: Radio fosters a sense of togetherness, offering a shared space where communities can learn about challenges, celebrate progress, and collaborate for a better future.

Radio in Action: Examples from Our Community

1. Side by Side Campaign
   The Side by Side initiative, led by the Department of Health, uses radio to empower caregivers with practical knowledge about child health and development. Broadcasting in multiple languages, it reaches millions of families with relatable, culturally relevant content. It’s a shining example of how radio can strengthen bonds between caregivers and children.
2. Nal’ibali Reading-for-Joy Campaign
   Nal’ibali, a member of the Hold My Hand community, harnesses the power of radio to foster a culture of reading. Through engaging storytelling and literacy-focused programming, Nal’ibali encourages parents and caregivers to read aloud with children, sparking imaginations and improving literacy skills. The campaign also uses radio to distribute free, multilingual stories, ensuring every child has access to the joy of books.
3. Local Community Radio Stations
   Across South Africa, community radio stations like Radio Zibonele, Alex FM and Vukani FM are invaluable partners in spreading messages. These stations work closely with local organisations to share life-changing information about child safety, education, and wellbeing. Their call-in shows and listener interactions create a two-way dialogue that builds trust and engagement.

Radio’s Role in Building a Brighter Future

For the Hold My Hand community, radio is more than just a tool—it’s a bridge. It connects people across distances, offers a platform for unheard voices, and builds momentum for change.

On this World Radio Day, we salute the broadcasters, programme creators, and community stations who bring vital information to life. Through their efforts, they make it possible to reach even the most isolated areas with messages of empowerment, unity, and possibility.

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