According to the organizers, the event was postponed to allow the voting process to be completed. They say the process has been rather slow this time around and they saw fit to provide the public with more time to vote for their favourite radio personalities across the country. As a result, the closing date for voting of nominees has been extended to the 28th of February.

The radio community week is organised by the Thoughts Lounge, a popular hangout spot, in conjunction with the Free State provincial government and is set to be held in the province until 2021.

Over 260 participants, from over 66 community radio stations from across the country, will head to Mangaung for a week filled with meaningful engagements and learning with the aim of empowering community stations.

The last day of the week-long event will culminate into an awards ceremony where different presenters will be rewarded for their outstanding job of making a difference in their respective communities.

Free State Premier, Sisi Ntombela, says community radio is a critical element of society that the provincial government supports. In November 2018, Ntombela donated R1 500 000 to local community radio stations in an effort to enable them to perform their social responsibility as a strategic partner and an important medium of informing and educating communities.

The event was first held in Bloemfontein in 2017 and was considered to be a success. The National Community Radio Week celebrations also include International Radio Day.

OFM News/Michael Tlhakudi