YAMBIO, Western Equatoria State — The Governor of Western Equatoria State, Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, has urged residents to rely on radio as a key source of credible information ahead of the 2026 general elections, as the UNESCO advances the installation of Yambio FM radio station.
Governor Rimbasa said radio remains one of the most effective communication tools, particularly in rural communities where access to digital platforms is limited. He emphasized its role in promoting voter education, peace messaging, and informed participation in the electoral process.
“I am very pleased and excited to see this project coming to fruition and nearing completion. This initiative is highly commendable and will greatly improve access to information for our people,” he said.
He added that Yambio FM is expected to play a central role in strengthening civic awareness and supporting peaceful elections, describing radio as a unifying platform that connects communities.
The governor also commended UNESCO for supporting media development in the state, noting that the project will enhance transparency, public engagement, and social cohesion.
“This station is being upgraded with modern technology, including solar power, computers, and improved studio facilities. It will serve the entire community,” he said.
Meanwhile, UNESCO reports that renovation and installation works at Yambio FM are about 80 percent complete.
According to Paul Night, who spoke during a monitoring visit in Yambio, the project is progressing steadily despite global supply chain challenges affecting the delivery of key equipment.
“At this stage, approximately 80 percent of the building renovation has been completed, with only final touches remaining,” he said.
He added that two studios are currently under renovation, with technical teams already on site, and refurbishment is expected to be substantially completed soon to allow installation to begin.
Paul Night said essential equipment—including solar systems, ICT infrastructure, studio furniture, and broadcasting tools—will be delivered in phases over the coming months. The station is expected to become fully operational within about three months after completion.
As part of preparations, 30 journalists from Yambio FM have already undergone professional training under UNESCO’s media development program. The training, conducted in November 2025, focused on ethical reporting, editorial standards, and public-interest journalism.
The initiative is part of a broader program launched in May 2025 with support from the Government of Japan, aimed at strengthening local radio services and improving access to reliable information ahead of the 2026 elections.
Senior staff from the station also participated in a study tour in South Africa, where they gained experience in station management, editorial independence, and sustainability from established public broadcasters.
Officials from the State Ministry of Information and Communication welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major boost to public communication in the region.
Isaac Fora and Yambio FM Station Manager Emmanuel Samuel said the project will enhance reporting capacity and improve information flow across the state.
Governor Rimbasa reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the station and working closely with partners to ensure its success.
“We fully recognize this as our radio station and we are committed to supporting it politically and institutionally,” he said.
UNESCO says the Yambio FM project is part of wider efforts to strengthen public media across South Sudan, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
Once operational, the station is expected to enhance civic participation, promote peacebuilding, and provide communities with timely and reliable information as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections.
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