The power of waves: How community radios are fostering inclusive governance in Senegal

The Hewlett Foundation’s Inclusive Governance strategy, part of our Gender Equity and Governance Program, focuses, among other priorities, on strengthening independent and pluralistic media that both monitors government and reflects the perspectives of underserved populations in a select number of countries, including in Senegal. Senegal’s media landscape is made up of at least 27 daily newspapers, more than 20 general-interest radio stations, nearly 150 community radio stations, and approximately 20 TV channels, not counting the online press. In 2023, the country scored 2/4 on the “free and independent media” indicator of the Freedom House’s Freedom in the World report, reflecting a press environment that is described as increasingly threatening. Within this sometimes-constrained space, community radios play a pivotal role in fostering inclusive governance by providing a platform for diverse voices and opinions to be heard. These grassroots media outlets help create an informed and engaged citizenry, empowering marginalized communities, and promoting transparency and accountability in the democratic process. This is experienced in Senegal where the Hewlett Foundation partners with the Union of Associative and Community Radios (URAC) in strengthening the capacities of community radios to produce accurate and inclusive information to local communities and create spaces for participatory dialogue between different segments of the population.

Amplifying diverse voices

Community radios in Senegal prioritize inclusivity by amplifying the voices of sidelined and underrepresented groups. These stations often serve rural areas where mainstream media may not have a presence. By providing a platform for local communities to express their concerns, aspirations, and perspectives, community radios ensure that a wide range of voices are heard in the public discourse. As more and more local communities proactively produce data and knowledge related to their experiences and needs, community radios could be a key channel to transmit these to policymakers to inform more precise and effective policies.

Localized information and awareness

One of the key contributions of community radios to inclusive governance is the dissemination of localized information. These stations address the unique needs and challenges faced by different communities, helping citizens make informed decisions about issues that directly impact their lives. From agricultural practices to healthcare initiatives, community radios act as a vital source of information tailored to the specific concerns of their listeners. In the district of Kédougou for example, debates facilitated by the community radio station led to significant improvements in the management of health clinics, primary schools, and land via community engagement and monitoring initiatives. The strength of community radios also lays in the fact that they broadcast in local, primary languages for those communities and citizens who often do not speak or understand the official language — French in the case of Senegal.

Promoting civic education

Inclusive governance thrives on an informed and educated citizenry. Community radios in Senegal often run programs focused on civic education, covering topics such as democratic processes, human rights, and civic responsibilities. These initiatives empower citizens with the knowledge they need to actively participate in the decision-making processes of their communities and of the nation as a whole.

According to URAC, broadcasts on municipal taxes have enabled municipalities to improve revenue mobilization because populations now understand how critical the payment of municipal taxes is to achieving basic service delivery. Community radios’ role as civic educators becomes particularly critical in the most isolated and underserved areas in Senegal during election cycles, when citizens count on them to learn, for example, how and where to collect their voter cards, how to learn about candidates’ political platforms, how to locate polling centers, or in some cases how to vote.

Connecting communities and authorities

Community radios serve as bridges between local communities and government authorities. They provide a space for open dialogue and communication, allowing citizens to engage with policymakers and express their concerns directly. Through interviews, town hall discussions, and call-in programs, community radios create a platform for constructive interaction between the government and its people, fostering a sense of transparency and accountability. Community radios are undoubtedly one of the few spaces for expression of the most underserved populations living in the most isolated areas where access to mobile network, Internet and general media is still a big challenge. In the city of Ndoffane, Laghem FM (the community radio station) connected a citizens’ committee with the mayor to reallocate funds in a way that benefits communities more fairly. This is not to say that community radios do not experience the threat of political capture because of their ability to powerfully intervene in the relationship between elected officials and their constituencies. This is why URAC has established nonpartisanism, independence, plurality, secularism, equity and inclusion, etc. as fundamental criteria for radio stations to join the membership.

Empowering women and marginalized groups

In many societies, including in Senegal, women and marginalized groups often face challenges having their voices heard. Community radios actively work to address this imbalance by featuring programs that highlight the achievements, concerns, and perspectives of women and other marginalized groups. This inclusivity helps empower these groups and contributes to a more equitable and just society. One such example happened recently in Tambacounda, an eastern region of Senegal. Wely FM, one of the most popular community radio stations, features programs dedicated to people who are underserved. One of these programs sparked listeners to create a Local Disability Association, which has begun to advocate for authorities to consider the needs of those with disabilities in the development of local policies. In Sokone, in the central region, an initiative to set up a Citizen Monitoring and Control Committee (CVCC) composed of diverse groups, mainly women and youth, emerged from a local community radio program.

Conflict resolution and peacebuilding

Senegal has a diverse cultural landscape, and community radios play a crucial role in promoting understanding and peace. These radios often engage in conflict resolution initiatives, providing a platform for dialogue and reconciliation within communities. By addressing local grievances and fostering unity, community radios contribute to the maintenance of social harmony and stability. In Kébémer, a long-lasting conflict which existed between the Town Hall and local market traders has dissipated thanks to a radio show dedicated to it.

Community radios in Senegal are instrumental in promoting inclusive governance by amplifying diverse voices, providing localized information, promoting civic education, building trust between communities and authorities, empowering marginalized groups, and contributing to conflict resolution. As pillars of grassroots communication, these radios play a crucial role in building a more inclusive, informed, and participatory democratic society.