By Gerda Potgieter
KwaZulu-Natal radio station Radio Khwezi recently celebrated 30 years of broadcasting to its community, fulfilling its original promise to spread hope and transform lives.
Thousands of supporters and fans from across the country attended a special celebration event on September 7. Distinguished guests highlighted the ongoing significance of the work of the station founder, late Rev Erlo Stegen, and the continued prominence of his community station.
Keynote speakers emphasised the impact of Khwezi on its community and the difference it makes. Ms S Qhu, the ECO of MDDA, said:“This 30-year celebration is not a small feat. Many community radio stations close because of a lack of support. Radio Khwezi was one of the first on many levels, including digital communication. It operates within communities and utilises the talents and skills of the community. Khwezi’s training is outstanding, and therefore, many who they train have moved into other radio stations and even started their own businesses.”
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Khwezi was the first to secure a licence in the 1990s for a community radio station. It was also one of the first radio stations to feature children presenting programmes specifically aimed at children, as well as a youth programme offered by young people. Mandla Khwela, with his programme, Let There Be Light, is one of the first individuals with a disability to broadcast a weekly programme dedicated to people with disabilities. This programme has a considerable impact on the community in various ways. Khwezi’s Listeners’ Club, known as Masibumbane, has over 6 500 members across more than 40 branches. This is a unique club where members support each other during difficult times, addressing issues that affect them collectively.
Khwezi is a community-run radio station founded on Christian principles. Over the years, it has been recognised for its achievements and notable successes, receiving over 50 awards. It claimed a remarkable number of honours at the 2024 South African Radio Awards with more than 19 nominations. It won the Community Radio Station of the Year title for the second time.
Radio Khwezi is located at the KwaSizabantu Mission on Silverstream Farm, near Kranskop. The mission station was established 55 years ago by Erlo Stegen, a respected missionary who was called over 70 years ago to share the Gospel with the Zulu people in SA. When the station began broadcasting in 1995, it was among the first community radio stations to start broadcasting in post-apartheid SA.
Born from a deep passion for community development, this nonprofit radio station acts as a beacon of hope for the rural and economically challenged regions of the Midlands and North Coast of KZN. Its mission is to inspire, educate, and empower local voices, offering a diverse array of engaging programmes that reflect strong moral values. Rooted in Christian principles, the content resonates with the community’s heart and soul. With a vision to become a vibrant and sustainable catalyst for positive change, Khwezi aims to uplift its listeners’ spirits and foster a sense of unity and purpose.
Radio Khwezi’s broadcast footprint is in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, available on 90.5 FM and 107.7 FM. However, anyone can tune in online from anywhere in the world by downloading the app from their website. It also has a helpline. For more information about the station visit: www.khwezi.org.za)
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