South Africa’s Mbombela based radio station, Ligwalagwala FM, has been praised by listeners for the pivotal role it plays in improving their lives.
And in celebration of the station’s 40 years on-air, the city town of Mbombela was brought to a standstill as taxi operators, motorists and the station’s branded vehicles embarked on a convoy around the city.
With over 1.3 million listeners, the station covers the whole Mpumalanga province in South Africa and has footprints in other regions as well as neighbouring countries like Mozambique and Eswatini.
The station listeners spoke about how they have been able to make informed decisions about their lives through the station’s programmes.
Some listeners stated that aside from the entertainment, information and education programmes, the station also brings hope where there is none.
“We hope that the station will grow beyond the 40 years and reach 100 because it has helped a lot of listeners. The station keeps us informed about everything, including the weather and news making headlines. We wish Ligwalagwala FM to grow from strength to strength,” one listener said.
Themba Msimango, a taxi operator from Matsulu, shared that his taxi is always tuned into Ligwalagwala FM.
Msimango said, “When one listens to Ligwalagwala FM in the taxi, they are sure to get information about any destruction on the road and accidents, and also if motorists see any destruction along the road, they can alert the station, and they will make an announcement.”
Ntfonjana Dlamini, Acting Business Manager Mpumalanga Combo, shared that the station will be adding new content for both young and old listeners.
According to Dlamini, aside from its mandate of entertaining, informing and educating, Ligwalagwala FM will continue to impact people’s lives, particularly the less privileged.
