Community Radio in Contemporary South Africa – Deconstructing Complexities in Demarginalization

ABSTRACT

We used on-site interviews and roundtable conversations with practitioners to uncover original evidence of ways in which two variant South African communities activated citizens’ involvement in radio co-production of content. We found dual analytical filters in state control of radio during two colonialisms and via contemporary policy regimes rooted in conceptualizations of participatory communication. Evidence of citizen-owners’ reversal of state’s radiophonic capabilities for repression and marginalization of voices added to literature on community radio in South Africa. Findings included policy and theoretical implications plus recommendations for the reformation of the African radio sector.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Anthony A. Olorunnisola

Anthony Olorunnisola, professor and Associate Dean of Graduate Programs & Research, the Bellisario College of Communications, Pennsylvania State University at University Park, 16802.

Wunpini Fatimata Mohammed

Wunpini Fatimata Mohammed, Assistant Professor of Global Media Industries at the Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communication, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602.

Sarah Moore

Sarah Moore is a Project Manager with Locution Systems, Golden, CO 80401.