CAR- UN Radio station GUIRA FM begins operations in Kaga-Bandoro

16 Feb 2015

CAR- UN Radio station GUIRA FM begins operations in Kaga-Bandoro

Guira FM the radio station of the United Nations Multidimensional integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) began operations in Kaga-Bandoro and can be heard on 93.3. The station’s signal that was detected last Thursday enables the radio station to relay 24/7 its Bangui broadcasts to Kaga-Bandoro through its transmitters and receivers.

A Technical and production team currently on site launched a one week talk show series dedicated to Kaga-Bandoro. Greeted on arrival by a group of young people the team was able to hear the youth expectations and relay them on the radio station : "We are excited to finally have a radio on which we can hear beautiful music, messages of peace and news and that would take our concerns seriously and work with us to try to find peaceful solutions to problems. These are the messages of peace that we want to hear not those of the armed groups", says a young technician. In a radio talk show. Serge another young boy was delighted and pleased to welcome the radio station in his city and encouraged his friends and family to listen to the “Voice of peace”. Talking on the same show, the Mayor of Botto called for the protection of the civilians. He hopes “that loots and violence committed by breeders against the civilian population will end soon”.

Guira FM, named after the palaver tree under which all issues will be addressed was launched in Bangui on 14 September 2014 on the eve of the transfer of responsibility between MISCA and MINUSCA.

As no radio station currently covers the entire territory, Guira FM aims at providing coverage to more than 80% of the population. The station broadcasts 24/7 news programs, features, talk shows, magazines, radio spots and music. The station’s mission is to support and promote the peace process, accompany the elections and restoration of state authority and become, as its name indicates, an instrument of peace.

The station is also committed to fair, balanced and accurate news and information and freedom of the press with programs in French and Sango devoted to themes related to peace, reconciliation, human rights and protection of civilians.

Following its launch in Bangui and Kaga-Bandoro Guira FM will gradually expand its coverage throughout the country. Its transmission project aims to cover Bria, Bouar. Bossangoa, Berberati, Bambari, Ndélé, Bangassou, Birao and Paoua before the end of 2015.