AUC/AFRO 105.3 FM Radio Embark on Innovative Partnership

Addis Ababa, 11 May 2012 – The Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mr. Erastus Mwencha congratulated the Directorate of Information and Communication (DIC) and AFRO 105.3 FM Radio for establishing a vital partnership during the signing ceremony that took place today, Friday 11 May 2012 at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Mr. Mwencha presided at the signing ceremony in the presence of the Commissioner of Rural Economy and Agriculture, Mrs. Rhoda Peace Tumusiime; the Director of Women, Gender and Development Mrs. Litha Musyimi-Ogana; the General Manager of AFRO 105.3 FM Radio, Mr. Hasiet Fessha; the Director of Information and Communication, Mrs. Habiba Mejri-Cheikh; some AUC and Afro FM Staff among others.

In his address, the Deputy Chairperson of the AU Commission stated that the partnership agreement between the African Union Commission and Afro FM is a milestone. Mr. Mwencha noted that information is a powerful tool that can be used to advance the development of the Continent by enhancing exchange of views between citizens. He underlined the need to inform African citizens and the Diaspora on the values built, the achievements made and the challenges faced by the African Union.

Mr. Mwencha further explained that it is through the use of the media that successful information exchange can be made. He stated that the radio programs can fill the information gaps and will serve as platforms to debate issues such as peace and security, infrastructure, social welfare, education and integration. Concluding his remarks, the AUC Deputy Chairperson called on members of the Commission to participate in the discussions and debates featured in the Afro 105.3 FM programs.

The Director of Information and Communication Mrs. Habiba Mejri-Cheikh, on her part said this new kind of partnership would contribute to the visibility of the AU in Ethiopia and will encourage other Radio Stations and media within the continent and worldwide to sign similar partnerships with the AUC in line with the communication strategy of the AU.

The DIC Director emphasized on the importance of contracting  partnerships with private and public audio-visual, radios, televisions and print media in disseminating information about the activities of the AUC.

The General Manager of AFRO 105.3 FM Radio excited with the partnership between his Radio station and the AUC. Mr. Hasiet Fessha reiterated AFRO FM’s commitment in contributing to the development of the Continent. He highlighted that this partnership will enable the station to act as an agent of integration, democracy and good governance. Mr. Fessha expressed his wish for the successful realization of the partnership and its fruitful outcome.

The different radio programs to be aired by AFRO 105.3 FM under this partnership are:

• The Breakfast Show (Mondays – Fridays 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM)

This program highlights positive happenings and current issues in and around Africa. It will brand and portray the positive aspects of the Continent that are given little or no attention by other media operating around the world. It focuses on business and economic related issues around the globe.

• African Profile (Mondays 7:30 AM – 7:45 AM and Tuesdays 5:30 PM – 5:45PM)

This program presents the profile of one African country at a time. It includes the languages, natural resources, history, landscapes, cultures, music and other features of African countries.

• Movers and Shakers (Saturdays 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

Interviews conducted live and engaging influential people who can set an example or influence our daily lives.

• Behind the Afro Mike (Thursdays 11:30 AM – 12:00 and Saturdays 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM)

The program deals with African Diaspora (Both who are residing in Ethiopia or abroad) along with interviews with some briefings at the beginning, middle or the end of each session.

• French Programs (Mondays – Fridays 10.00 AM – 11.00 AM)

Incorporates local, African and international news in French and feature different radio programs in French –

• Opting Green (Wednesdays 1.30 PM – 1.40 PM)

Provides information on renewable energies and bio-fuel development projects, compiles and provides latest news, update findings and bio-fuel development technologies, best practices that can be applicable, examine and present the potential areas where the continent (Africa) benefits from the clean development mechanism and encourage private investors to engage in bio-fuel development in the continent, enlighten the public on the benefits of using renewable energy both and the efforts of the African Union in promoting this practice.

Afro 105.3 FM is an independent, commercial private Radio Station broadcasting mainly in English, French and other foreign languages to the vast international and local communities in Addis Ababa. It is a vital source of information, ideas, and cultural experience that enriches people’s lives through lifelong learning. After receiving the first ever FM broadcasting license in January 2008, to air in foreign languages from the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority to broadcast in Addis Ababa and its environs, Afro FM 105.3 Radio had targeted the local elite, the large Ethiopian Diaspora and the expatriate community and foreigners.

For Further Information consult the AU website: www.au.int

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