The Power of Community Radios in Spreading Awareness about Mental Health.
Over the years, radio has proven to be a very powerful means of communication. It has been used to shape and influence conversations across various sectors worldwide, including politics, finance, education, agriculture, health, culture, religion, science, security, and technology. In Kenya, especially within informal settlements, radio remains a crucial tool due to its broad reach, affordability, and portability. Additionally, radio offers numerous stations that broadcast not only in national languages but also in vernacular languages and emerging street languages like the "sheng."
Since April of this year, mental health champions from Mukuru, Mathare, and Kahawa have been using community radios by participating in talk shows to raise awareness about mental health. In Mukuru, these shows are hosted on Ruben FM; in Mathare, on Ghetto Radio; and in Kahawa, on K.U Radio. So far, the shows have already begun to show results. This is evident through the many call-ins from listeners seeking more information about mental health. The shows also serve as pathways for listeners to access referrals and other support mechanisms if they face mental health issues. Men, who have traditionally remained silent about their mental health struggles, are now opening up during these broadcasts. Additionally, these shows are helping to dismantle societal stigmas associated with mental health conditions. The myths and misconceptions surrounding mental health are increasingly being challenged. Cultural labels that once linked mental health to curses or witchcraft are fading away. People are now more aware and informed. In fact, most can now seek appropriate therapy or medication if they experience mental health issues, gradually shifting perceptions about mental health as they understand it more clearly.
The existence and availability of these community radios are proving to be a fair equalizer in closing the information gap between the poor and the rich, allowing everyone to access timely information on social issues. The design of these talk shows is carefully structured so they can produce and deliver local content for the community, in the languages people understand best. They also consider and incorporate the needs, expectations, and feedback of their audiences at the core of their broadcasts. Another key factor is timing. The shows air during the morning hours when most listeners are likely starting their day and can easily listen to them during their commute or walk to work.
Radio remains a crucial player in informing, reporting, and educating the masses. With 60% of Nairobi’s population living in informal settlements, community radios serve as vital tools in sharing and disseminating information to these communities. These radios have significantly
helped simplify important and complex community discussions, which in turn has greatly contributed to building a society that is more caring, happier, and more productive. Lastly, the easy accessibility of these community radios through various technologies and platforms, such as phones, websites, vehicles, and bodabodas, continues to make them convenient for people, especially those living in informal settlements.
Written by
Joseph Muindi Kisio
Mental Health Champion, Mukuru kwa Njenga
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