Why Radio Matters in the Struggle Against Violence in South Africa

The Vibrant Youth reporters have spent the last two years using radio to raise awareness about gun violence, to advocate for a safer community, to build partnerships, and to start conversations about healing and togetherness in the township of KwaMashu.

Gun violence is a serious problem in the township of KwaMashu on the outskirts of Durban, South Africa.

“A lot of the youth in KwaMashu choose to pick up guns, but we as the young reporters choose to pick up recorders”, says Asanda Radebe, a young reporter from Vibe FM. She and the rest of the Vibrant Youth reporters have spent the last two years using radio to raise awareness about gun violence, to advocate for a safer community, to build partnerships, and to start conversations about healing and togetherness.

They’ve made it their mission to uncover powerful, real-life stories in the hopes that they can change the lives of their listeners for the better.

“The change is that the sense of hopelessness has lessened in a way,” says Sandile Bhengu. “Radio reminds people that we are together.”

• Produced by Makhulu