Why AM radio thrives in the age of the internet

Bridging the Communication gap - EQUIPING REMOTE RURAL WOMEN WITH AN AM-RECIEVER RADIO.

Don't underestimate the crackle: Why AM radio thrives in the age of the internet

In a world buzzing with high-speed internet and endless digital streams, it's tempting to dismiss AM radio as a relic of the past. Yet, amidst the sleek smartphones and ubiquitous Wi-Fi, AM radio quietly continues to play a vital role, especially in the forgotten corners of our world - the remote rural communities.

While internet connectivity might seem like the ultimate information gateway, the reality is starkly different for many. In remote areas, the internet remains a distant dream, leaving communities isolated from the information wave. This is where AM radio steps in, its simple technology transcending limitations. Powered by a humble hand crank, it delivers news, education, and entertainment, bridging the communication gap and empowering those often left behind.

AM radio's relevance lies in its accessibility. Unlike its internet-dependent counterparts, it doesn't require expensive infrastructure or complex setups. Even in the most remote village, a simple antenna can capture the signal, bringing information directly to homes. Furthermore, the familiar crackle of AM broadcasts in local languages resonates with communities, making information relatable and culturally relevant.

Beyond mere entertainment, AM radio can become a lifeline for rural communities. Imagine farmers receiving crucial weather updates, families accessing healthcare information, or children hearing educational programs, all through the familiar voice of AM radio. It empowers communities to navigate their lives, make informed decisions, and connect to the wider world, even when internet access remains a distant dream.

AM radio may seem like an underdog in the digital age, but its value in bridging the communication gap for remote communities is undeniable. So, the next time you hear the crackle of an AM radio, remember, it's not just nostalgia; it's a powerful tool for information, education, and empowerment, ensuring that even the most remote voices are heard.

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Been working on a project proposal whole of last year. It's focused on bridging the communication gap for remote rural communities in Papua New Guinea. By remote we mean, those who do not even have a mobile phone network, FM/tv coverage etc...

Among other targeted group of people in these remote areas, women are one of the primary focus. Even though, the whole targeted community is so isolated, women in these areas a far more disconnected then their fellow menfolk. Most times men may have some opportunities to access information or gain exposure to the outside world but the women at most times are secluded.

Well, I'm thrilled to that it's not just a proposal anymore – KOMBRIS, short for "KOM - Bridging the communication gap," is coming to life in 2024! We will pilot 10 rural remote sites in PNG to initiate the project and learn from it as we go on.

KOMBRIS is a combination of approaches including,
1. Technical set up
2. Community empowerment
3. Content production.

For the tech aspect, KOMBRIS firstly aims to have VSAT installation for the selected remote institution like school or health facility or mission station and with this installation it also offers Community Wifi and Community Radio (FM) for the surrounding remote communities. These are all solar powered system and works off the grid. Apart from these package, a SW / AM transmitter is also be set up, most likely in Lae. Content will be locally produced and also sourced from partners. All content in Tok Pisin. Content production and compilation is also a crucial part of the project and we hope to partner with relevant stakeholders.

Specially for the women empowerment. KOMBRIS recognizes the harsh reality faced by countless women in PNG's remote areas. Isolated from information, their voices often go unheard, and their potential remains untapped. But the projected is aimed to change that narrative. It will not be an overnight change but a journey of learning and building on from the lessons. First 10 diverse pilot sites will be selected to embark on this journey, using a simple yet powerful tool: AM radio. Most probably, women to be trained and equip with an AM receiver.

Unlike its counterparts, radio is cheapest form of communication media, from the receivers end. It literally cost the person receiving the signal nothing apart from the capital cost of the hardware. Unlike SMS/internet/TV etc... you pay to receive information. And then, compared to FM radio that also has limited reach, AM radio cuts through this infrastructure limitations, reaching even the most remote corners. This accessibility makes it the perfect platform to deliver vital information in the familiar cadence of Tok Pisin, directly empowering women in the language they are familiar with.

But KOMBRIS doesn't stop with technology. The project is about empowering people and more specifically women to become active participants in their own transformation. The project aim to identify and train groups within each pilot site, transforming them into local champions equipped with possibly specially modified hand-crank AM radios. These radios, featuring built-in torches and limited functionality for optimal usability and affordability, become their gateway to knowledge. Why the hand-crank? simple, it makes it easier to charge.

Beyond hardware, comprehensive training empowers these champions to confidently operate the radios, navigate program schedules, and become proficient information receivers and disseminators within their communities. Regular follow-up training and information sharing sessions, conducted via the AM/FM band at convenient times like 8 pm, ensure continuous learning and engagement.

These interactive sessions would address crucial topics relevant to rural women's lives – maybe healthcare, agriculture, financial literacy, legal rights – curated with sensitivity to local contexts and challenges. KOMBRIS recognizes that empowerment is a journey, not a destination. Follow-up interventions will assess the project's impact, address emerging needs, and provide further support, potentially connecting women with microfinancing opportunities, additional resources, or even establishing peer-support networks.

By combining the accessibility of AM radio with transformative training, KOMBRIS goes beyond simply delivering information. It equips women with the tools and knowledge they need to become agents of change in their communities, amplifying their voices and paving the way for a brighter future. This project serves as a beacon of hope, not just for PNG, but for communities worldwide struggling with communication gaps and gender inequality. Join us in supporting KOMBRIS and empower women to break the silence and claim their rightful place in the world.

Remember, this is just the beginning. As KOMBRIS unfolds, the crackle of AM radio in remote villages will become more than just sound waves; it will become a chorus of empowerment, amplifying the voices of women and illuminating the path towards a more informed, equitable, and empowered future.

Let 2024 unfolds as we navigate into the second month :)

WGuti@2024