By Simbarashe Sithole
RADIO Zimbabwe has taken its second road show to Bambazonke in Zimunya, Marange, Manicaland province, in a move aimed at strengthening its relationship with listeners and bringing broadcasting closer to the communities.
The event attracted thousands of people and various stakeholders, turning the venue into a hive of activity as businesses, community members and organisations came together to celebrate the power of radio in connecting people and promoting development.
The road show was mainly sponsored by Manicaland ZANU PF provincial member Brighton Manengureni through his Manengureni Family Trust, who received a rousing welcome from the crowd.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Manengureni said the initiative provided an important platform for corporates and other stakeholders to interact and explore opportunities that could stimulate development in the area.
“Such platforms are important because they bring corporates and communities together. When different stakeholders come together, they share ideas, identify challenges and find ways of addressing them. This interaction can go a long way in fostering development in Zimunya and the surrounding communities,” he said.
Among the stakeholders who participated at the event were NetOne, Mukuru, Doves, Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) and Captain Drink, who used the platform to engage with the public and showcase their services.
CAES chairperson Ellison Samuriwo Muchenje described the road show as a success, saying the massive turnout demonstrated the importance of taking national broadcasting initiatives directly to the people.
“We are excited by the success of this road show. Thousands of people came out to support the event, and as stakeholders, we had an opportunity to interact, exchange ideas and discuss how we can contribute towards developing this community.
“Development cannot be achieved by one individual or organisation alone. It requires collective efforts and partnerships between businesses, community leaders and other stakeholders. This is why such gatherings are important,” he said.
The road show underscored the role of radio beyond entertainment, providing a platform for community engagement, business visibility and partnerships aimed at improving livelihoods.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of collaboration between broadcasters, the corporate sector and local communities in driving grassroots development.