The contribution of community radio in promoting good governance through public participation in Murang’a county: a case study of Kangema Ranet Fm
Abstract
This study critically analyzed the role community media plays by examining how radio can be an
essential tool of ensuring principles of good governance by ensuring community participation.
The researcher used descriptive design so as to adopt descriptive statistics. The researcher
applied multi-stage random sampling method and purposive method. Data collection was
undertaken using questionnaire and interviews.
The researcher concentrated on three sub- counties; Kangema, Kigumo and Kiharu. In the three,
the researcher further subdivided the counties into wards, where three wards in each sub county
were selected for study. The picked were: Kinyona, Kangari, Kigumo, Kanyenyeini, Iyego,
Rwathia, Murarandia, Mugoiri and Kahuro. From each ward the researcher picked 22
respondents.
The findings of the research indicated that the station highly contribute on promoting good
governance in Murang‘a county by encouraging community participation through use of
Community‘s own language. Kangema FM offers the community an opportunity to participate
on governance issues by providing them with information, giving them an opportunity to be part
of content developers, using their own language and hiring from the community. Kangema FM is
both a radio station and weather station that constantly airs weather alerts for farmers in
Murang‘a County.
The use of Kikuyu dialect as the presentation language was seen as a way of enhancing
participation on issues of governance. County government official were noted to be using the
station on passing information but still a majority of respondent felt they were not doing enough
to enhance participation on governance issues. Programme content was not tailored to focus
more on public participation on governance issues.
The research recommended involvement of community leaders and community in content
development
Citation
Masters of arts in communication studiesPublisher
University of Nairobi