With support from Norwegian People’s Aid, the Voice of Hope Radio in Wau, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, has been recognized for its significant contribution to peacebuilding and promoting the rule of law through its programming.
This recognition follows a period of intense conflict (2017-2023), during which the communities of Wau were divided along tribal lines, severely restricting movement and exacerbating tensions.
Angelina Ayen Changai, a peace advocate and Canon from the Episcopal Diocese of Wau, highlighted the pivotal role of Voice of Hope Radio in fostering dialogue and healing.
“Wau was deeply divided, but people began to speak the truth when the radio introduced its peacebuilding programs. Listeners called in to express their thoughts, which helped foster understanding and promote peace in Western Bahr el Ghazal.”
“The town was divided into four parts, and movement was severely restricted. But as we engaged with the public through radio, we received feedback on air, and gradually, people felt empowered to move freely again,” said Changai.
Youth activist Joakino Samuel has also utilized the radio station to advocate for including young people in peace negotiations. He believes the station has provided hope for the peace process.
“I am a regular guest on the station, discussing peace and the role of young people. The radio has raised awareness about the revitalized peace agreement and the ongoing negotiations.
It has given many people hope, especially those unable to follow the peace process directly,” said Samuel.
In addition to its daily broadcasts, Voice of Hope Radio runs an outreach program called Community Dialogue to engage with people outside the town.
This initiative has been particularly impactful in hard-to-reach areas. Mama Achalla Ogua, a 60-year-old resident of Kuajiena—located 30 kilometers from Wau with limited access to services due to insecurity—praised the radio for amplifying community voices.
“The radio helped us educate our community about health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, frequent cholera outbreaks, and the peace process,” she said.
With support from Norwegian People’s Aid, the station facilitated a Community Dialogue on peacebuilding that brought together 50 local participants. Their views were broadcast on the radio, and the community called on the government to ensure security during the upcoming elections by redeploying forces.
“We urged the government to unify and ensure our safety before, during, and after the elections,” said Ogua.
The stories shared by Wau’s residents underscore the crucial role of radio as the primary medium of communication in South Sudan.
The Catholic Radio Network, which operates nine stations with Norwegian People’s Aid support, has been instrumental in providing reliable information and fostering a sense of unity.
Michael Mareng, Voice of Hope station’s Director, said the support from NPA has been vital. It ensures the continuity of broadcasts and helps journalists in the region develop their skills and practice their profession in a challenging environment.
As Wau continues to heal from years of division and conflict, Voice of Hope Radio stands as a powerful force for change, promoting peace, unity, and communities’ rights to be heard.