The role of radio communication in combating violence against women: A case study of Anisa FM radio in Yambio County, Gbudue State- South Sudan

Abstract

The study aimed at establishing the contribution of ANISA FM radio programs in combating violence against women (VAW) in Yambio County, Gbudue State, in South Sudan, and was guided by the following objectives: To examine the programs aired on the ANISA FM radio in order to establish if they play a role in empowering local women; to assess the levels of contribution by the local women in terms of radio programs and also evaluate the impact of ANISA FM Radio programs. The study adopted a case study design, applying both qualitative and quantitative research approaches and using survey method. The study subjects were activists in the fighting of violence against women, these included; civil society organizations, United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) department of Gender and Human rights, State Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare and Community leaders plus journalists who work with ANISA FM Radio station. A sample of 85 respondents was targeted for the study and the response was obtained from 73 respondents. Data collection was guided by questionnaire and interview, and the data were analyzed using both statistical and thematic analysis. Study findings indicated that ANISA FM Radio programs promote women‘s rights to peaceful coexistence with men and in so doing empower them to fight violence against women (VAW). Also, the study revealed that the programs had a lot of meaning and contribution especially to the local woman in terms of educating them about their rights and approaches to be adopted in their struggle against violence. The study equally revealed the high levels of women (71%) as opposed to men (29%) participation in radio programs that carry messages that fight VAW. This showed the strong and positive relationship between ANISA FM Radio and the community. This positive stance has been attributed to the fact that the program is highly participatory in structure. The study concludes that the effort of ANISA FM is not in vain as it has a good following in its education program and therefore, could be tapped into in expanding the dissemination of peace programs. The study recommends that men should be involved to increase their participation in fighting VAW in Yambio County, Gbudue State, and South Sudan in general. The study equally recommends that women activists in South Sudan should promote village ANISA Radio Listeners Clubs, to increase the spread of the radio programs on violence against women.