Radio: Indispensable voice in climate change fight

That climate is changing is undeniable. Erratic rainy seasons, dwindling rivers, and increasingly intense heatwaves are impacting our farms, water resources and daily lives. In this climate of uncertainty, radio remains a constant and reliable source of information.

For decades, radio has been our companion, informing us and connecting us to the world. It is a lifeline, especially during crises. When floods threaten, drought looms, or storms strike, radio is often the first to deliver critical information. Unlike social media, which can be rife with misinformation, or television, which depends on electricity and infrastructure, radio is accessible anywhere, anytime—even in the most remote areas.

Across Africa, communities rely on radio for essential updates. Farmers tune in for weather forecasts to guide planting decisions. Fishermen listen for warnings about dangerous waters. Families in disaster-prone areas depend on radio for life-saving alerts about disease outbreaks and severe weather. In crises, radio provides real-time, trusted information that saves lives.

Beyond reporting on disasters, radio tells the stories of individuals grappling with climate change. It amplifies the voices of a pastoralist in Turkana adapting to harsher droughts, a young innovator in Nairobi developing solar solutions, and a conservationist working to protect forests. These narratives personalise climate change, making it relatable to our lives, families and futures.

Despite its crucial role, radio faces challenges. Many community stations are struggling due to funding constraints. Rising operational costs, from licensing fees to transmission expenses, make it difficult for independent and community-owned stations to survive. Climate journalists lack the training to translate complex science into accessible language. Others work in under-resourced newsrooms where environment reporting is not prioritised.

While digital platforms are expanding, radio is not obsolete; it is evolving. Stations are embracing online platforms, launching podcasts and utilising mobile apps to reach younger audiences. Radio is also being integrated with SMS alerts, enabling people to receive weather warnings directly on their phones while still getting in-depth analysis on radio.

Governments and private partners must recognise radio’s value and provide support through policies and investment. Training programmes for journalists covering climate issues are essential. Funding mechanisms should be established to support community radio stations. Partnerships with scientific institutions should be fostered to ensure accurate and timely climate information dissemination.

As the world discusses climate change, we must ask: are we leveraging every available tool to inform and protect our communities? Radio must be central to this conversation.

Mr Omwoyo is the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya. [email protected]