AMSTERDAM, MAY 2025 - 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. REF FM NL is meant for and by refugees who are waiting for their asylum application in the Netherlands and are staying in asylum centers for that purpose. It will be an online radio station.
Station manager is Emanuel Mchimbwa, a former refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo who is now a Dutch citizen working for the Dutch Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA). Emanuel's passion is radio ('I breath radio'). He had his own radio station in a refugee camp in Tanzania. He therefore seems the ideal candidate for station manager at REF FM NL.
Emanuel has already put together a team of asylum seekers from countries such as Nigeria, Libya, Yemen, Iraq, and Syria. REF FM NL is a station for and by refugees who are waiting for their asylum application in the Netherlands and are staying in asylum centers (AZC) for that purpose. But the station is for the host communities in the surrounding area as well, and for listeners who value inclusive, intercultural, and community-oriented media.
The station is an online radio station that serves as a bridge between AZC-residents and the surrounding community. Emanuel: ‘We aim to inspire, inform, and connect people through positive and accessible programming that highlights stories, music, and perspectives from diverse cultures.
We believe that everyone deserves to be heard. REF FM NL is committed to strengthening relationships between people from AZC and host communities. Through music, conversations, and storytelling, we build bridges across cultures and generations.’
REF FM NL stands for hope, collaboration, and making a positive impact. It stands beside AZC-residents and local communities alike, giving attention to every voice and story. ‘We believe connection starts with listening' says Emanuel. 'REF FM NL strives to be a positive voice in a divided world. By being genuinely involved and fostering real connections, we contribute to a society where everyone matters.’
TUNE IN TO REF FM NL
TUNE IN TO REF FM MAHAMA
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