The South African Arts and Culture Youth Forum in the Free State (SAACYF), has raised its concern that no community radio station from the Free State Province appears on the list of successful applicants for the Community Sound Broadcasting Service and Radio Frequency Spectrum Licences. The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), recently awarded 18 Community Radio Stations with Licences across South Africa.
The Youth Forum said while it congratulates the 18 new community radio stations awarded Community Sound Broadcasting Service and Radio Frequency Spectrum Licences, the absence of any newly licensed Free State station means that many young people, artists, traditional leaders and community organisations remain without vital platform for expression, participation and development.
The Provincial Chairperson of the South African Arts and Culture Youth Forum – Free State Lekgutsa Mbele said they urge ICASA and all stakeholders to ensure that no province is left behind in building a diverse, inclusive and representative community broadcasting landscape.
The licensing process followed the publication of the Invitation to Pre-register (ITP-R) in the Government Gazette No. 51727 on 10 December 2024. A total of 93 applications were received, with 41 admitted to Phase 1. Following compliance with pre-registration requirements, 19 applicants progressed to Phase 2. After final evaluation, 18 applicants were successfully granted licences, while one applicant did not meet the requirements.
Successful Community Radio Stations:
* Mahube FM** – Gauteng
* Dash FM, Lit Radio, Nkungumathe FM, Royal FM & uThukela FM** – KwaZulu-Natal
* Cape Winelands FM & Muzi FM** – Western Cape
* Bulungula Community Radio, Ikhweto FM & Sabela FM** – Eastern Cape
* ECR, Lephalale FM & Sibasa FM** – Limpopo
* Mbombela FM** – Mpumalanga
* Bonjanele FM & Trust FM** – North West
* Tsantsi Rise FM** – Northern Cape
Mbele said his Forum calls amongst others for ICASA to provide a full and transparent report explaining why no Free State applications succeeded and to outline support measures for Free State applicants in future licensing rounds, that municipalities prioritise capacity building, training and funding support for prospective Free State community broadcasters and for the Civil Society to assist in preparing stronger, compliant and sustainable applications for the next process.
