UKEREWE, MAY 2025 - Renowned Ugandan 'peace journalist' Gloria Laker Aciro, has been teaching the crew of several REF FM radio stations for the past few months. Teaching them all the skills needed to become a good radio presenter/reporter.
Gloria: "The young crew is so eager
to learn. Great to see!"
Gloria is a former war reporter. She began writing as a displaced young girl covering the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) conflicts in Northern Uganda.
Today, Gloria heads the Peace Journalism Foundation of East Africa, a Peace Media Organization which reports on the post-war recovery and development of Northern Uganda. In 2008 Gloria won a BBC Communicating justice Radio project in Uganda. Gloria is eager to start a REF FM radio station in Uganda and has asked REF FM Foundation to support her.
From Gloria's report: ‘From April 14 to 22, 2025, the entire radio crew of REF-FM Ukerewe 107.3FM, Tanzania received a nine-day in-house mentorship training to enhance its broadcasting capabilities. The program that focused on improving content production, professionalism, social media, and revenue generation strategies was sponsored by REF FM Foundation in partnership with REF FM UKEREWE.
A significant emphasis was placed on ethical reporting concerning disabilities and elections, particularly addressing issues affecting individuals with Albinism. The training incorporated interactive methods such as theory sessions, group discussions, and field assignments. Post-training assessments indicated substantial improvements in the team's skills and preparedness.’
The training highlighted the dedication, teamwork, and leadership of the youthful and the focused nature of the crew of REF FM UKEREWE. The team's strong work ethic and eagerness to learn were evident throughout the program, positioning the station for sustained growth and impact.’
Station manager Richard was very enthusiastic: ‘This training has significantly enhanced our team's skills and confidence. We are now better equipped to produce inclusive, ethical, and impactful content for our community. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Ref Empowerment Foundation for sponsoring this vital initiative.’
Also interesting
REF FM STATION IN THE NETHERLANDS
In Den Bosch, the Netherlands (NL), preparations are being made for the launch of REF FM NL, the first REF FM radio station outside of Africa. The first, but certainly not the last.
REFUGEES TRAINING REFUGEES
For the first time ever a crew member of one of the REF FM SUPPORTED stations has trained the crew of another REF FM station. South Sudanese refugee Dedi Isaac from BIDIBIDI FM has been teaching the crew of REF FM KYANGWALI.