Community radio station, Nkomazi FM is celebrating its first birthday. “I still remember the very first day we went on air. I remember the very first moments, the reactions from the staff here at the station and first song that played.
Rev Nthali was the first person to open the mic and speak on air, it was a blessing for all of us and a dream come true. We really have come a long way, yet it feels just like yesterday,” said Makhosi Zulu, station manager.
“We are very thankful to our loyal listeners who have been with us throughout the year. From the calls to the direct participation in whatever activity.
The love and support we are receiving from this community is unbelievable, from taxi drivers to bus drivers all through to the listeners under the shade at home. This is indeed humbling,” he added.
Makhosi went on to boast about their following on the social-media platform since their establishment, and the award received by the station at the Mpumalanga Gospel Music Awards last year.
“We are now ranked as one of the top community radio stations in the province and the country. We’ve managed to pick up an award in our first year of broadcasting, we command the largest following on social media compared to other radio stations in the province.
We are just babies in the industry, but the love from the people is enormous and it keeps us going.”
However, the station manager acknowledged that it has not been a walk in the park. They have had to deal with challenges.
“We’ve had our setbacks, some ups and downs here and there, but we are learning and growing every day. The station has power, Nkomazi FM iNEMANDLA and this wouldn’t be possible without or loyal listeners and community members who are driving the station.
Nkomazi is one united sub-region which is using this medium to deal with its issues and we are humbled to be the first stop in our area. There’s only one direction from here – higher,” Makhosi said.
The celebration will be held at Mzinti HUC on Saturday February 14, and all communities are invited.
“We will be hosting gospel singer, Hlengiwe Mhlaba. We are aware that it is prayer that got us this far, therefore we decided we will celebrate in prayer, ask God for more strength.”
Ian Calf and Inkazimulo are but some of the local acts that will be keeping the audience entertained on the day.
According to Makhosi, they will also be celebrating Valentine’s Day and doing some fund-raising for the station.
“We want to continue to flight our pastors for free, thus we will be fund-raising on the day as well. It is also a family affair as we will be celebrating the love surrounding us. Entrance is free. I encourage everyone to come have an amazing time. We all deserve it,” he concluded.
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