Tanaka Chare
Celebrations unfolded with live streaming and fun field activities at the Civic Centre as the local radio station,98.4FM Midlands, kicked off its 8th anniversary in style.
The celebrations were running under the theme “ Harnessing the media for socio-economic development.” The theme embraces the promotion of media excellence, diversity, and national development, which are fundamentals of the Zimbabwe Media Policy launched by His Excellency in March 2025.
The 98.4FM radio personality Victoria Nyanhete, popularly known as Dynamite, expressed her joy over the accomplishments that the radio has made, the staff that keeps the audiences entertained 24 hours everyday and everyone who supports the shows.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to half of the 98.4FM team and to everyone who has been supporting us over the years. Today we celebrate the 8th anniversary with great joy and enthusiasm. l would like to thank our team for their dedication to keeping the audiences informed and entertained every day. “
The festivities commenced with Gweru’s most talented artists, Baba Gweru, Mai Elly, Xiddo Chikandamina, among others, who captivated the audience with their enchanting performances.
The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Midlands Province Honourable Owen Ncube, was honoured to be part of the celebrations.
“ I feel greatly honoured to be invited to this momentous occasion. Radio stations are playing a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of previously marginalised communities, disseminating information about development issues, healthcare awareness, promoting local languages and enlightening the public on national priorities such as the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 and the Rural Development 8.0 Vision 2030 Accelerator Models.”
Hon Ncube urged journalists to practice ethical reporting and instill a culture of integrity.
“ I encourage media practitioners to install a culture of integrity, shun corruption, refrain from spreading falsehoods, creating disunity, and promote foreign narratives that oppose the development aspirations of our motherland, Zimbabwe. Journalists and other media personalities must practice professionalism and high ethical standards that propel delivery of accurate, balanced and factual reporting without fear of favor,” Hon Ncube said.
98.4FM, a regional radio station established in July 2017 by AB Communications, has taken the bold initiative to dialogue with its stakeholders on issues of national development, given the media’s leverage in promoting economic growth, fostering social development, and strengthening governance systems.
