Challenges in Setting Up and Operating a Community Radio Station in Kenya: Study of Community Radio Stations in Nairobi

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to identify the challenges in setting up and operating a CRS in Kenya. The theoretical framework used was participatory communication approach. A descriptive survey research design was used where questionnaires and interviews were tools for data collection. The research site was Nairobi County where the sampled radio stations - Koch FM, Ghetto FM and Pamoja FM are located. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 49 respondents for interviews, that is, the 3 station managers, 6 workers, 36 listeners, 3 engineers and 1 CCK personnel. The data was analyzed by the use of computer software called SPSS. According to the findings, some of the major challenges facing the community radio stations are lack of salary or poor remuneration, inadequate equipment, low capacity generators, insufficient working space, unprofessional productions and high staff turnover. These challenges are due to lack of finances since the CRS are not allowed to advertise to make money. The major ways to » tackle these challenges are to get funding and get other ways of raising money like promotions. Most of the challenges facing the community radio stations are financial in nature. The outcome of this study indicates that the CRS are in need of financial support. Alternative means should be found to support CRS including government funds, and permits to advertise in order to raise money for operations. The donors, sponsors and the local community should put more effort in supporting these stations.