A Space for Discussion in Burundi
SFCG journalist Nunu Gréliane speaks with the Ngagara administrator on air while taking calls regarding neighborhood crime.
Radio is a large part of the strategy we employ in Burundi and SFCG’s Studio Ijambo has recently been honored by many sources for the quality of this programming. One of the programs we produce is a daily radio show about the youth of the country called Isanganiro Ry’urwakura, or “Youth Forum”. This program is produced in partnership with Radio Insanganiro in Bujumbura. Its format is a live, on-air discussion that encourages people from around the country to phone in with their opinions and suggestions.
On 14 Febuary, Isanganiro Ry’urwakura produced one such show looking at the current state of Ngagara district in Bujumbura, Burundi. Nunu Gréliane, a young Burundian journalist working with SFCG to hone her craft, hosted the show.
Ngagara district experiences a particularly high level of crime, with youth being largely responsible for thefts committed. SFCG brought the administrator of the district on the program and opened up the phone lines for a live conversation about the district, the current state of crime, and the measures being taken to prevent it.
The district administrator acknowledged the problem but feels crime rates are dropping in the district because of a policy which engages three groups on the ground: community members, the police, and the administration. Reducing crime rates, he claimed, hinged on teamwork between these groups. The administrator also encouraged people with information about crimes to come forward.
After the phone lines opened, some callers from Ngagara called in support of the administrator, verifying that they noticed a reduction of crime in their district. Other Burundians from different communities called in as well, with proposals for a safer Ngagara. They encouraged vigilant, active policing in Ngagara, as well as making criminals accountable for their actions as a way to set an example of enforcement.
Although the rate of crime may have decreased, it remains a serious societal problem for the people of Ngagara. Isanganiro Ry’urwakura offers a space where these important issues are raised, especially issues concerning the youth of Burundi. More importantly, the program’s live, call-in format offers a national platform where Burundians can have their voices heard on pressing issues for the country’s next generation. It is through programming like Isanganiro Ry’urwakura that SFCG brings different voices together in an effort to have open, frank dialogue about the problems facing young Burundians.
Learn more about our efforts to promote dialogue in Burundi.
