Faith-based radio: Beyond spirituality, encompassing development

ABSTRACT

This article aims to assess the activities of Kingfisher FM, a faith-based community radio station, and its contribution to development in Port Elizabeth and its environs. A qualitative data collection method, in the form of group interviews, was used to collect data. The analysis of data indicates that a number of opportunities for audience participation are provided by the station. Thus, it was found to operate as a Christian radio station according to its licence and for its defined target audience. Within the framework of audience participation, however, Kingfisher FM also functions as a medium for development in that it involves its audience in a variety of operational, planning and programme design activities, which provide audience-specific input and thus help to ensure that the programme content remains closely informed by audience realities.

Keywords:

• Christian radio
• development
• faith-based radio
• participatory communication

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Oluyinka O. Osunkunle

OLUYINKA O. OSUNKUNLE completed his doctorate in Media Studies at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.

Janina Wozniak

JANINA WOZNIAK is a senior lecturer in the Department of Journalism, Media and Philosophy at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, South Africa.