Radio France Internationale on Ghanaian Airwaves

Accra (Greater Region) 19 March '99

The Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) has concluded an agreement with Radio France Internationale (RFI) for transmission of the latter's programmes in Accra. Under the five-year agreement, RFI will use GBC's equipment to broadcast on Frequency Modulation (FM) 89.5 using both French and English languages starting today. Programmes to be covered include music, education, magazines, debates and international news with emphasis on Africa and an increased coverage of Ghana. Mr John Mahama, Minister of Communications, said the opening of RFI station is in tune with the government's policy to liberalise the country's airwaves and create a multiplicity of information channels. "The presence of the RFI station on our airwaves reinforces the government's strong desire for the spirit of openness and transparency through the free flow of information", he said. Mr Mahama described the launch as significant, saying Ghana is surrounded by French communities and this will enhance interest in French language for effective communication with her French-speaking neighbours. "Indeed Ghana is positioning itself to be the gateway to West Africa; we cannot be a proper gateway if we are unable to communicate with neighbouring Francophone countries which form the majority in the West African sub-region," the minister said. The partnership between RFI and GBC will bring about the exchange of ideas and expertise, he said. Mr Mahama expressed the hope that in future Ghanaians will be absorbed into RFI as staff. Mr Diddier Ferrand, French ambassador in Ghana, underscored the importance of RFI' presence in Ghana. He said Accra hosts international programmes like fairs, conferences, seminars and meetings which attract a number of visitors many of whom are French-speaking Africans and the presence of RFI will be much appreciated. Mr Ferrand said RFI would also donate equipment and share its experiences with journalists and technicians of GBC to enhance performance.