Radio Network in Southern Senegal Tries to Restore Peace

February 16, 2011

Pasted to the wall inside Fogny FM, a radio station located just south of the Gambian border, are the words "radio is an art" scribbled in French. But for thousands of listeners living amidst West Africa's longest running civil war, the station is far more than art.

It is central to hopes for peace. Fogny FM is one of nine community radio stations scattered across conflict-ridden Casamance in a network dedicated to peace.

Since 1981, separatists in Casamance have been fighting Senegal's national government over land rights. Bouts of violence and killings have devastated the region's economy, culture, and society.

Casamance was once the breadbasket of Senegal. It had a thriving agricultural economy and a rich cultural heritage. Now, people are afraid to travel between villages for fear of hidden landmines or attacks by rebel bandits. Animosity and fear have heightened tension and made communication difficult.

Six years ago the U.S. aid organization World Education started their community radio network. They recently released a documentary, entitled Casamance Voices of Peace, which traces the project’s evolution. Their goal has been to bring people together, by giving them a platform to speak from, and improve their access to information.

In Senegal, like in many developing nations, radio is the best way to keep people informed. The American-based non-profit group, Development Radio Partners, says the number of community radio stations in Africa grew by nearly 1500 percent between 2000 and 2006.