SEDIBENG. – A brand new local radio station, Mahube FM 97.8, will soon hit the airwaves as the only community radio licence awarded in the whole of Gauteng during this phase.

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) recently finished Phase 2 of its community radio licensing process.

Out of 93 applications received, 18 new licenses were awarded across the country.

The station will broadcast to the entire Sedibeng District, which covers Emfuleni, Midvaal, and Lesedi.

ICASA said that through a series of workshops and engagements, it supported prospective applicants with information and guidance on the licensing requirements and process.

“These engagements contributed to applicants submitting informed and compliant applications. The process reflects ICASA’s commitment to facilitating meaningful participation and community involvement in the broadcasting sector, in line with the mandate of regulating the sector in the public interest.”

Without revealing too much, sources told Sedibeng Ster that Mahube FM will be based in Ratanda, Heidelberg, and will broadcast to the entire Sedibeng District, which covers Emfuleni, Midvaal, and Lesedi.

Listeners can look forward to exciting radio programmes run mostly by familiar former local Vaal radio DJs.

The licence holders, Bana ba Godimo DIC and Awareness Centre, have promised to:

•            Deliver community-focused and informative programming,

•            Promote local content

•            Uphold transparency and accountability

The entity will not associate itself with individuals or groups whose conduct contravenes the regulatory obligations.

The board has pledged to serve the station without seeking personal gain, dividends, or shares, and stated they will work closely with management and staff while avoiding individuals who break regulatory rules.

“The entity will not associate itself with individuals or groups whose conduct contravenes the regulatory obligations of the institution,” Bana ba Godimo DIC and Awareness Centre announced.

A community meeting will be convened soon to formally introduce the station, present its programming vision, and invite community participation.