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The launch of the transmitters covering a radius of 70 kilometres is expected to unlock the vast investment potential in the area.
The people of Shangombo have praised Government for what they consider as a turning point in their lives.
Shangombo has not had access to radio since Zambia’s independence in 1964.
Information and Broadcasting Services Minister Mwansa Kapeya, who launched the transmitters yesterday, said Government was determined to allow people in rural areas have equal access to the mainstream media such as radio and television.
The minister, who was accompanied by his deputy Poniso Njeulu, acting Information Permanent Secretary John Moyo, Western Province Permanent Secretary Amos Malupenga, and other senior Government officials, told the people of Shangombo that Government would ensure their standard of living was improved.
“This is a moment of great pride and joy for the people here who can now listen to ZMBC radio one and two.
“Indeed, the launch of the transmitters is a New Year’s gift for Shangombo and Western Province as a whole from your caring and hardworking Government under the leadership of His Excellency President Michael Sata,” Mr Kapeya said.
He said Shangombo was among 25 sites countrywide that were scheduled to benefit from Government’s funding under the Rural FM Project.
Mr Kapeya said that other sites earmarked for connection to the FM radio One and Two of ZNBC in Western Province were Mwandi and Lukulu, in addition to the FM transmitter in Mulobezi which would be commissioned today.
“The total cost of the Rural FM Project is K8.3 million. In this regard I am pleased to inform you that the Government has already released K7.9 million,” Mr Kapeya said.
He said in addition to the Rural FM Project, Government, in line with the Patriotic Front manifesto, was undertaking various other projects aimed at enhancing the free flow and public access to information.
In a vote of thanks, a Shangombo resident, Nalumwe Mutumwa thanked Government for the transmitters.
Times of Zambia
