Access Radio Partners With BBC to Air Radio Dramas on Gender Based Violence in South Sudan

(YEI COUNTY) – Access Radio 88.8 FM in Yei has entered into a partnership with BBC Media Action in affiliation with Anika Development Agency to promote youth participation in civic life and to raise awareness against sexual and gender based violence across Central Equatoria, Eastern Equatoria and Western Equatoria States.

The project, called “Advancing Youth Civic Engagement, including against Sexual and Gender Based Violence in South Sudan”, is running for six months from 1 May 2025 to 30 October 2025.

It is supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is being implemented in close collaboration with Anika Development Agency’s Communication for Development (C4D) programme.

As part of the agreement, Access Radio is broadcasting a series of radio dramas designed to engage young people on civic issues and social change. Each drama episode is followed by a fifteen minute call-in session where listeners can share views, ask questions and take part in open discussions.

In addition, short educational skits under the title “Madam Smart” are being broadcast regularly. These skits address everyday challenges faced by young people and communities, including issues around gender equality and community responsibility.

To ensure quality and impact, the radio station is keeping records of all episodes and call-in contributions. Weekly reports are being shared with BBC Media Action and selected staff members are taking part in training and mentoring sessions to strengthen skills in community broadcasting.

The programme aims to give young people in South Sudan a stronger voice, while also addressing sensitive issues like sexual and gender based violence in ways that communities can relate to and openly discuss.

According to a statement released by Anika Development Agency, the collaboration between Access Radio and BBC Media Action is part of a wider effort to use radio as a bridge between communities and decision makers, helping to create safer spaces for dialogue, civic awareness and peace building.

Radio Dramas Bring Civic Issues to Life for Young People