In a city where conflict has shaped daily life for over eight years, radio has remained a vital source of information, education, and connection. On 13th February 2025, Bamenda will join the global community in celebrating the 13th edition of World Radio Day, with a special event themed "Radio for All", organised by the Cameroon Journalists' Trade Union (CJTU) North West Chapter and the Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) Bamenda Chapter.
According to a joint statement by the two institutions, the event will bring together radio station managers, journalists, and listeners to reflect on the medium’s impact in the restive region. Highlights will include a panel discussion on the future of radio, a Listeners’ Forum to encourage public engagement, and an awards ceremony recognising outstanding radio personalities and dedicated listeners. A live broadcast session will extend the conversation beyond the venue, while a Media Literacy Workshop will address the growing challenge of fake news.
With the 2025 World Radio Day theme focused on "Radio and Climate Change," discussions will explore how radio can drive awareness and action on environmental issues. However, in Bamenda, where armed conflict has disrupted access to reliable information, the event will also serve as a reminder of radio’s role in keeping communities informed and connected in times of crisis.
Across history, radio has played a critical role in times of uncertainty. From World War II broadcasts that reassured millions to modern-day conflicts where radio remains a key tool for survival, the power of the airwaves cannot be underestimated. In the North West Region of Cameroon, journalists have faced extreme risks simply for doing their jobs. The killings of Anye Nde Nsoh in 2023 and Rebecca Njeme in 2020, as well as the abductions and arrests of several media professionals, highlight the dangers of reporting in a conflict zone.
Beyond individual threats, entire radio stations have come under attack. Ndu Community Radio, Stone FM in Ndop, Bui Community Radio in Kumbo, and City Community Radio have either been shut down or destroyed, cutting off lifelines for many rural communities. The targeting of these stations not only threatens press freedom but also deprives the public of crucial updates on security, education, and health.
Despite these challenges, radio continues to serve as a source of education and entertainment in Bamenda. The "Radio for All" celebration will be more than just an event, it is expected to be a tribute to those who have risked everything to keep the public informed and a reaffirmation of the medium’s enduring significance. In a region where access to trustworthy information can mean the difference between safety and danger, the role of radio has never been more important.