On September 17, 2024, the city of Kenge, located in the Kwango province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, was the scene of a significant event: the inauguration of a new community radio station supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). This initiative was welcomed by the vice-governor of the province, Rémy Saki, who stressed the importance of this communication tool to inform and help the population of Kwango to lead a more fulfilling life.
As part of this inauguration, local authorities highlighted the crucial role of radio in raising awareness among residents about health issues, particularly with regard to vaccination coverage. The coordinating physician of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), Dr. Léon Makambu, expressed his satisfaction with the contribution of radio to promoting vaccines and improving public health in the province.
Damien Ndakanwa, UNICEF representative, stressed the importance of transmitting messages on family practices, with a particular emphasis on vaccination. He recalled that the fight against infectious diseases, such as polio, requires effective communication and easy access to information.
For its part, UNICEF has taken concrete measures to support community radio, by guaranteeing a bonus to the presenters for three months. This commitment aims to ensure the sustainability of the communication tool and to strengthen its impact within the community.
In conclusion, the inauguration of this community radio in Kenge marks a significant step forward in the promotion of public health and raising awareness of social issues among the population. This event demonstrates the commitment of local stakeholders and UNICEF to the well-being of the inhabitants of Kwango, and opens new perspectives for a more informed and resilient future.