Thirty years old and still relevant: Radio turf celebrates thirty years of uninterrupted broadcasting

Thirty years old and still relevant: Radio turf celebrates thirty years of uninterrupted broadcasting

Radio Turf, a community-based radio station operating from the University of Limpopo (UL), marked a significant milestone this year as it commemorated three decades of broadcasting

Known as ‘The station that listens to the people’, Radio Turf was established in 1994, with media moguls Given Mkhari and Simphiwe Mdlalose among its founders. Since its inception, the station has served as a beacon of diversity, nurturing talent across ethnic groups, and providing a platform for community engagement and information dissemination.

Reflecting on the journey during a gala dinner to celebrate the milestone, co-founder Mdlalose reminisced about the station’s humble beginnings. “When we went on air in 1994, we were just a campus radio station, broadcasting from 6 AM to 6 PM daily,” Mdlalose shared. He said securing the broadcasting license initially posed a challenge, with debates about the station’s ability to serve the broader Mankweng community. However, he said through perseverance and advocacy, Radio Turf obtained its official license in 1995, paving the way for its expansion into a vital community resource.

Simphiwe Mdlalose, one of the founders of Radio Turf, reflects on the station’s evolution over the years, now recognised as one of the premier community radio stations in the province

The 30 year celebration was attended by past and present staff members, sponsors, and supporters. The event served as a platform to honour those who have been instrumental in Radio Turf’s journey.

According to those who have part of the station for several years, financial sustainability has been a constant challenge for Radio Turf, requiring innovative strategies to raise funds. Support from organisations such as the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), and various sponsors has been instrumental in overcoming financial hurdles. Additionally, SENTECH’s unwavering support, despite initial payment challenges, has been pivotal in Radio Turf’s growth trajectory.

The station’s impact extends beyond the airwaves, nurturing talent and empowering communities. The station has been responsible for the unearthing of radio talent which include prominent broadcasters and media personalities such as Clayson Monyela (Spokesperson), Kwenisto Makgakga (broadcaster), Madikana Matjila (Business Manager – SABC Limpopo Combo), Isaac Mashila (Thobela FM), Hellen Seabi (former Capricorn FM presenter), Thipa Selala (Polokwane Local Municipality Spokesperson), Arthur Masoma Masoma (Skeem Saam), Roseta Sebapu (Thobela FM), Sandile Dikgari (Thobela FM), Ofhani Munyai (Phalaphala FM) and Bongani Sithole (ML FM), who have made significant contributions to the media landscape.

Professor Richard Madadzhe, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning at UL, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to supporting Radio Turf as a vital communication channel and talent incubator.

Reverend Vusumuzi Mabuza, former station manager of Radio Turf, emphasises the need for permanent appointments in strategic positions at the station to ensure professional operations

Reverend Vusumuzi Mabuza, former station manager, highlighted the challenges such as talent management that persisted during his tenure. He stressed the importance of addressing these challenges to sustain Radio Turf’s impact. “It is impossible to run a radio station with just volunteers and contractors,” Rev Mabuza remarked, advocating for the creation of permanent positions to enhance professionalism and stability.

The current Radio Turf Station Manager, Mamadi Makwena, thanked the station’s volunteers, management, Board of Directors, and sponsors for their unwavering support, emphasising that it has been the cornerstone of their success. “I would be failing in my duty if I did not thank our content providers and our loyal listeners for their fervent support,” he concluded.