"This study aimed to map the community radio sector, with a view to helping it realise its promise. We have been critical, but always with construction in mind. All too often community radio stations are presented in glowing terms, as heroic endeavours .. and in many respects, they are. However, unl ... ess weaknesses are explored and gaps identified, community radio will not get smarter and more sustainable. The stations described here will change and grow. Everywhere we went we encountered extraordinary energy. There is great promise, and we hope that our report will be a positive contribution to the future." (Conclusion, page 67) more

"The authors present six local and independent radio stations from Africa - community radio stations, and commercial and NGO run radio stations with strong community participation - showcasing good practices for sustainability, defined as "ability of a radio station to maintain a good quality develo ... pmental broadcasting service over a period of time." Asking the question, what is it that needs to be sustained? they offer a holistic view on sustainability by examining how a radio station is embedded in its geographic, economic, infrastructural, social, linguistic and cultural context. Furthermore, the case studies consider the broadcasting environment, programme schedules, management structures and sources of income of the radio stations. Particular attention is paid to the community engagement of the radio stations and to the causes for active community involvement." (commbox) more