Rapids FM gives Kavango communities a voice

What started as a small local radio station in a shopping mall in 2016 has grown into a vital platform for information sharing, skills development and community engagement across the Kavango regions.

Over the past decade, Rapids FM has established itself as more than just a broadcaster. While operating as a commercial radio station, it has increasingly become a bridge between communities, public institutions, businesses and aspiring media professionals.

Station manager Martin Mupo, who joined during the station's founding year, said serving the community has always been at the heart of its operations.

“Although we are a commercial radio station, we are founded within a community and we act as a community radio station at the same time,” he said.

From its studios in Rundu, Rapids FM reaches listeners across Kavango East and Kavango West through a range of programmes focused on news, education and entertainment. Its flagship morning show, Kavango Breakfast Express, keeps residents informed about developments in the two regions before expanding coverage to national, continental and international affairs.

One of its most significant contributions has been providing free airtime to institutions and organisations that serve the public.

The Namibian Police, government offices and non-governmental organisations are regularly given access to the station's platforms to communicate important information directly to communities.

Mupo said this allows organisations to raise awareness about issues affecting residents while ensuring that vital information reaches people who need it most.

“NGOs also come here for free so they can share information with the communities they serve,” he said.

At the same time, Rapids FM supports local economic development by offering affordable advertising opportunities to small and medium-sized enterprises, helping businesses increase their visibility without the high costs often associated with mainstream advertising.

Training ground

The station has also emerged as an important training ground for future media practitioners.

According to Mupo, internship opportunities have been available since the station's establishment and continue to provide students with practical experience in broadcasting, news gathering and radio production.

He estimates that about 21 students have benefited from internships over the past two years alone.

The programme gives aspiring journalists and communication professionals an opportunity to develop workplace skills while gaining valuable industry experience before entering the job market.

“For them, it is an opportunity to gain practical experience and graduate with skills that prepare them for the industry,” Mupo said.

Serving diverse audiences

Individuals from different professions who have a passion for broadcasting are also given opportunities to participate in programmes and gain experience in the media environment.

Another feature that distinguishes Rapids FM is its multilingual approach. Besides English, the station accommodates most of the vernacular languages spoken in Kavango East and West, while also providing space for languages such as Portuguese and Nyemba.

For many residents, this means information is delivered in languages they understand, helping to strengthen inclusion and community participation.