Assistant Minister for Information, Aliki Bia has stressed that radio fosters peace and connects communities while recognizing the essential work of broadcasters, especially public service broadcasters, in upholding democracy, culture and peace.
While speaking during the World Radio Day celebration at Suva Civic Centre today, Bia who is a former Communications Fiji Limited journalist says funding is key to ensuring radio remains a tool for unity, dialogue and understanding.
The Assistant Minister says public service radio can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world and continue to progress and maintain the standard of excellence.
He says the importance of funding for public service broadcasting cannot be overstated.
The Assistant Minister says the Fijian government allocated $10.4 million for the public service broadcast grant in the 2024 and 2025 national budget for both radio and television.
He says a tender was issued instead of relying solely on tradition, leading to the selection of Fiji Television and Mai TV as successful bidders for the television component.
He says the grant empowers the two television companies to produce and broadcast high-quality local content that is both informative and educational, serving the interests of the general audience effectively.
Bia further says radio is a public service that shapes the way we live, understand one another and build more resilient societies and acknowledged Communications Fiji Limited and Fijian Broadcasting Corporation for their incredible work over the past years.
He highlighted that CFL has set the benchmark for commercial radio and event management in Fiji, however, it is critical to acknowledge that these achievements and innovations do not come without their challenges.
The Assistant Minister adds that radio gives a voice to the voiceless, provides a forum for diverse views and communicates during both crisis and calm.
