POTENTIALS OF COMMUNITY RADIO FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY OF RADIO GAAKII IN THE SABOBA DISTRICT

Abstract

The mass media has an essential role to play in rural development. However, some researchers have complained about the media's failure to assist in the development efforts of rural communities. In Ghana, development scholars have constantly criticized the media for its failure to prosecute the development agenda of the deprived areas of the country since independence in 1957. Using the theories of Development Communication and Participatory Development Communication to appreciate the role of communication in rural development, this research examined the contribution of Radio Gaakii in enhancing the development of the communities it serves. The study adopted a cross sectional survey design and used both probability and non-probability sampling techniques in the sampling processes. The study major findings are that because the station broadcast in Likpakpaaln and other local dialects, its programmes are often listen to and it serves as a platform for informing community members of development projects and practices as well as advocating behavioural and attitudinal change as its programmes are often educational. In spite of the huge potentials of Community Radio to rural development, Radio Gaakii is faced with financial challenges and lack of volunteerism from the community. The study therefore recommends among others the formation of Radio Listening Clubs to enhance active community participation in Community Radio Broadcasts especially in governance, management and programme production. Also, government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, should take steps to mainstream the Community Radio Broadcast model into the Local Government Structure to enhance information dissemination and facilitate participatory decision-making processes.