“30 years of Freedom“ in South Africa refers to the period since the end of apartheid and the advent of democracy after our first democratic election of 27 April 1994. It marks the time since all South Africans, regardless of race, were granted equal political rights and opportunities.
Before 1994, South Africa was governed by a system of apartheid, characterised by institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. The majority of people of colour were systematically oppressed, denied political representation, and subjected to various forms of injustice and inequality.
The end of apartheid came with the release of Nelson Mandela from prison in 1990, followed by negotiations that led to the first democratic elections in 1994, in which all citizens could vote regardless of race. Nelson Mandela became South Africa’s first black president, and the country embarked on a journey towards reconciliation, democracy, and equality.
“30 years of Freedom” symbolises the progress made since then in terms of dismantling institutional racism, fostering inclusivity, and building a more just society. It acknowledges the achievements and challenges, including efforts to address continued socioeconomic inequality, promote reconciliation, and strengthen our democracy.
Bush Radio 89.5 FM is inviting interested individuals or organisations to submit programme application proposals to develop volunteer radio programmes under any of the following broad subject areas:
Children
Youth
Aged / seniors
Citizen’s Education
Arts and Culture
Gender
Disability
World Music
Africa
Media
Health
Sport
Technology
Programme proposals should have a specific aim, a defined target audience and be focused on specific issues/themes under the subject area.
No previous broadcasting experience is required to submit a proposal, Bush Radio will provide the necessary training and support should your proposal be selected for development.
What are we looking for in your proposal?
Potential – not only in ideas, but in people.
Programming produced and hosted by groups of individuals (no one-person programmes)
Local content and roots in the listening community
A diversity of grassroots voices, languages and accents from all over Cape Town
Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating
World Radio Day’s theme in 2024 shines a broad floodlight on Radio’s remarkable past, relevant present and promise of a dynamic future.
The 2024 observance highlights:
The indelible history of Radio and its powerful impact upon news, drama, music, sports …
The ongoing utilitarian value of Radio as a relatively free and portable public safety net during emergencies and power outages brought on by natural and human-made disasters such as storms, earthquakes, floods, heat, wildfires, accidents and warfare.
The continuing democratic value of Radio to serve as a grassroots catalyst for connectedness within underserved groups including immigrant, religious, minority and poverty-stricken populations; and as an instantaneous bellwether of public opinion expressed through the auspices of free speech in the public space.
Watch are some of the visuals captured by the BushRadio team at the State of the Nation address
Programme Alert: For more analysis, commentary and reaction tune into a special edition of “The Rundown” on #BushRadio 89.5FM – Saturday, 10 February 2024 at 11am.
The 2024 State of the Nation Address is scheduled to be delivered by to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday 8th of February 2024.
We asked listeners what they would tell the president he needs to address.
You can catch full coverage of the activities organised by civil society groups and NGOs leading up the address on Bush Radio 89.5FM or online, as well as the speech itself and then reactions to the speech in our coverage the next morning, on 89.5FM or online.
The following was originally published by BushRadioNews
Pre-1994 South Africans had no free, independent and licensed community radio stations.
A small group in Cape Town, South Africa, pioneered the concept of community radio, be yourself radio, radio that represents the diverse, divided communities of Cape Town.
A radio station that speaks with, to, for and by the people of Cape Town.
From being the first community radio station project on the continent, affectionately known as “the mother of community radio in Africa”, Bush Radio has always had at its core the training and development of new media talent but also fighting for and securing media freedom for all.
With its dynamic programming run entirely by a team of dedicated volunteers, it deals with a wide range of issues ranging from health through to social development, but also features developing artists, which means you could hear the latest in township gqom through to Mongolian throat singing, interspersed with indigenous Khoe instruments.
Bush Radio as an organisation is truly a microcosm of the potential of the people of South Africa and Cape Town, in particular.
A radio station which serves no political or religious masters, but rather the people. A station that doesn’t strive to be popular but rather necessary in the lives of the communities it serves. The very same people who form part and are represented by the station.
Daily Maverick article on Bush Radio
Therein lies the challenge for the station… it is not easily sold, marketed, or promoted – it does not fit neatly in a box that can be packaged, wrapped and shipped off like just another commodity.
Bush Radio represents an ideal, it represents hope, it encourages the building of pride in the people of Cape Town. It encourages them, through its programming, projects and training, to be part of building a better Cape Town, a better South Africa, a better world.
And in particular, Bush Radio is struggling with paying exorbitant rent to its landlord, ever-increasing fees to Sentech for signal distribution fees, and SAMRO fees for its extensive promotion of local music (yes, even though community radio plays up to 80% local, we pay every song we play).
But, as ever, Bush Radio remains in service to the people, and battles daily to build democracy through active citizenship, social upliftment and be an independent voice and amplifier of the voice of the people.
As we celebrate 30 years of democracy and head into a national election year, it is important that community radio stations like Bush Radio are supported so that we can continue building the nation.
About the contributor: Adrian Louw is the Programme Integrator for Bush Radio. Louw has been involved with the station on various levels since 1994, a graduate of Peninsula Technikon Journalism (now CPUT) and is a media trainer and media ethics fellow of the Salzburg Seminar.
At this time of year we at Bush Radio wish for a peaceful Christmas. May peace grow in our hearts and in the world, and may each of us be a light where there is darkness.
Supporting Bush Radio is important for several reasons, rooted in its historical significance, its role in resisting apartheid, freeing the airwaves for community broadcasting and its ongoing commitment to community engagement, media development and training.
Make a Donation: Directly contribute to Bush Radio’s pledge campaign by making a financial donation. Check our official website for banking details or contact us for details on how to donate.
Group Donation: Get your friends, family, or colleagues to make a collective donation. This not only increases the impact but also fosters a sense of community involvement.
Employer Advertising: Suggest to your employer the idea of advertising their products or services on Bush Radio. This can be a win-win situation, as it promotes local businesses while supporting the radio station.
Corporate Social Investment: Encourage your employer to include Bush Radio in their Corporate Social Investment (CSI) portfolio. Many companies allocate funds to support community projects, and Bush Radio’s initiatives (example The PushForward 16days campaign) could align with their corporate social responsibility goals.
Business Advertisements: Recommend local businesses or services you use to advertise on Bush Radio. Personal recommendations can carry a lot of weight, and it helps local businesses reach a wider audience both on FM, online and social media.
Encourage Groups/Organizations: Reach out to groups, organizations, or associations you are a part of or are familiar with. Encourage them to make donations or get involved in supporting Bush Radio’s pledge campaign.
Spread the Word: Use your social media platforms, email, and other communication channels to spread the word about Bush Radio’s pledge campaign. Share information about the importance of community radio and how contributions can make a positive impact. We thank you for your support.
Make Bush Radio Possible:
Why you should support Bush Radio
The challenges faced by Bush Radio highlight the ongoing struggles that independent community radio stations, especially as the pioneer in the sector, confront in maintaining their independence and viability. The station’s unique role in representing the diverse communities of Cape Town and fostering media freedom makes its preservation vital.
Supporting Bush Radio is important for several reasons, rooted in its historical significance, its role in resisting apartheid, freeing the airwaves for community broadcasting and its ongoing commitment to community engagement, media development and training. (Read more)
Bush Radio is a community radio station in Cape Town, South Africa, known for its commitment to community development and social justice.
Supporting Bush Radio means contributing to the preservation of a historic institution that played a key role in the struggle for freedom of expression and community empowerment in South Africa. It also ensures that the station can continue its mission of providing a platform for diverse voices and community engagement well into the future.
Why you should support Bush Radio
The challenges faced by Bush Radio highlight the ongoing struggles that independent community radio stations, especially as the pioneer in the sector, confront in maintaining their independence and viability. The station’s unique role in representing the diverse communities of Cape Town and fostering media freedom makes its preservation vital.
Supporting Bush Radio is important for several reasons, rooted in its historical significance, its role in resisting apartheid, freeing the airwaves for community broadcasting and its ongoing commitment to community engagement, media development and training. (read more below)
Here are a few reasons to support Bush Radio:
1. Historical Resistance:
Bush Radio has a rich history of resistance against the apartheid government. It played a pivotal role in challenging the oppressive regime by broadcasting illegally in the face of harsh censorship and persecution. This history represents a commitment to freedom of expression and the right to information.
2. Perseverance and Volunteerism:
The fact that Bush Radio started as a volunteer-driven initiative showcases the power of community engagement and perseverance. Volunteers dedicated their time and efforts to establish and sustain the station, demonstrating a deep commitment to community development.
3. Vision for Community Radio:
Bush Radio’s story reflects a vision for a future where community radio not only exists but flourishes. The station has been instrumental in advocating for the development of community broadcasting in South Africa, contributing to the establishment of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (now ICASA, Independent Communications Authority of South Africa) and the legal recognition of community broadcasting.
4. Advocacy for Independent Regulation:
During court appearances in the early 1990s, Bush Radio advocated for an independent body to regulate broadcasting in South Africa. This advocacy was crucial in shaping the post-apartheid broadcasting landscape and ensuring that broadcasting was regulated independently, free from political interference.
5. Legalisation of Community Broadcasting:
Bush Radio’s journey reflects the legalisation and formal recognition of community broadcasting in South Africa. The station navigated through the changing regulatory landscape, contributing to the establishment of a three-tier broadcasting structure that includes the vibrant community broadcasting sector.
We are sharing some clips from the first week of #BushRadio ’s #PushForward#16days campaign that we have been running annually. What an exciting, tiring, tough, fun but most of all, learning and sharing week for the team who have been going from various events and organisations every day. #16daysofactivism
Bush Radio plays a vital role in engaging with local communities, addressing their concerns, and promoting social development. Bush Radio, as an independent community radio station, can continue to serve as a platform for local voices, fostering community dialogue and contributing to social cohesion.
7. Continued Commitment:
Despite the challenges faced during the apartheid era and the subsequent legal battles and the current economic climate, Bush Radio has maintained its commitment to community radio. The station continues to serve its community with relevant programming, diverse voices, and new talent.
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