Radio Miraya Marks 20 Years of Broadcasting in South Sudan

(JUBA) – Thousands gathered at Buluk Playground in Juba on Tuesday to mark 20 years of broadcasting by Radio Miraya, the United Nations backed station that has become a vital source of news and a voice for peace across South Sudan.

The celebration featured music, dancing and performances by artists including Emmanuel Kembe, as listeners and officials honoured the station’s two decades of service. Radio Miraya was established in 2006 by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.

The National Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny, told the gathering that Radio Miraya had reached every home, cattle camp and payam in South Sudan, going where other media struggled to go.

He said that for many South Sudanese, the station remained the only source of information.

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Anita Kiki Gbeho, spoke about the daily work of the Radio Miraya team. She said that when the station fact checks a claim before broadcasting it, that is civilian protection.

She added that when Radio Miraya gives equal voice to communities across the country’s diversity, that is conflict prevention.