Bamenda’s media professionals and radio audiences gathered on Saturday, 22nd February 2025, to celebrate World Radio Day, emphasising the critical role of radio in addressing climate change. Organised by the Cameroon Journalists' Trade Union (CJTU) North West Chapter and the Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) Bamenda, in partnership with Alliance Française Bamenda, the event highlighted radio’s unique ability to inform, engage, and mobilise communities towards environmental sustainability.
The high point of the commemoration was a thought-provoking panel discussion on “Radio and Climate Change”, where seasoned journalists and broadcasters explored various dimensions of radio’s role in climate advocacy.
Juliette Afunyi, promoter and station manager of Afrique Nouvelle Radio, led the discussion on how radio raises awareness about climate change, emphasising its reach in informing even the most remote communities. Bakah Derick of Hilltopvoices Communications Group Ltd examined radio’s role in fostering community engagement, stressing that radio remains a trusted platform where citizens can interact, share concerns, and drive local action.
Clenise Ayubom of CRTV Bamenda addressed the importance of disseminating accurate climate change information, urging journalists to prioritise factual reporting to combat misinformation. Colbert Gwain, promoter of The Colbert Factor, focused on sustainability practices, highlighting how radio can inspire eco-friendly habits and policies. Sah Terence, President of CAMASEJ Bamenda, spoke on the role of radio in amplifying marginalised voices, ensuring that vulnerable communities affected by climate change are heard in policymaking.
The interactive session between panelists and radio listeners reinforced the urgency of collective action, with participants pledging to adopt environmentally friendly practices, such as proper disposal of plastic waste and reducing littering.
To honour the invaluable contributions of radio listeners, fervent callers and contributors received recognition certificates and call credit support, acknowledging their role in keeping discussions lively and impactful.
Fervent listener of CRTV Bamenda receiving certificate
Fervent listener of Foundation Radio receiving certificate
Pastor Austin receiving certificate
The event not only reaffirmed radio’s place as a lifeline for communication in conflict-affected Bamenda but also as a catalyst for climate action, ensuring that environmental issues remain at the forefront of public discourse.
The President of CJTU North West Chapter, Nji Ignatius and CAMASEJ Bamenda, Sah Terence used the event to express gratitude to Alliance Française Bamenda for accepting to partner with their institutions for the organisation of the event. Their gratitude was amplified in a certificate handed to the representative of Alliance Française Bamenda which partly read "In recognition of your invaluable support as the main partner and sponsor of the World Radio Day 2025 celebration in Bamenda.Your commitment to promoting media development, cultural exchange, and community engagement has been instrumental in the success of this event."
By Asheri Loveline
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77