On 25th March 2025, Chikuni Community Radio Station in Monze District expressed its heartfelt gratitude to listeners for their unwavering support over the past 25 years.

Established in 1999 and officially launched on 25th March 2000, the station has grown into a vital source of information, education, and entertainment for the community. Speaking during the Tuesday breakfast show, Managing Director Fr. Andrew Lesniara credited the station’s success to its engaged audience and reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying the voices of the voiceless. He encouraged the public to share ideas and constructive feedback, ensuring Chikuni Radio remains a beacon of community empowerment.

Reflecting on this milestone, Matongo Maumbi, a former broadcaster, shared his personal connection to the station:

 “As someone who grew up in Chikuni and dedicated 10 unforgettable years to the station—first as a volunteer hammering nails into its very foundation in 1999, then as a broadcaster pouring passion into every program, this 25th anniversary feels deeply personal. I remember the excitement of learning broadcasting, the nerves and joy of my internship, and the pride of officially joining the team on 1st November 2001. For nearly a decade, waking up for work never felt like a chore, it was a calling. The advice I received still echoes: "Learn everything you can; it will make you unstoppable." And so I did hosting shows on education, culture, music, agriculture, youth, and health, connecting with thousands of voices, and witnessing firsthand how a single program could change a life, a mindset, or a community. The most rewarding part? Meeting someone who’d say, "Your show taught me this," or "Because of you, I tried that." That’s the magic of Chikuni Radio, it wasn’t just a station; it was a school, a stage, and a sanctuary for progress. As we celebrate 25 years of impact, I raise a glass to the tireless team keeping the flame alive and to the next generation of storytellers and change-makers. May the next 25 years be even louder, bolder, and brighter! Cheers to Chikuni Radio, my first love in broadcasting, and forever a part of my story. From building studios to building lives—what a journey!”

The Director of Saint Kizito Pastoral College, Fr. Cletus Mwiila, joined others in congratulating Chikuni Radio on its Silver Jubilee. He praised the station for shaping the community’s identity and narrative, particularly its role in reviving and promoting Tonga music. Acknowledging the challenges community radio stations face, he wished Chikuni Radio another 25 years of success.

During the same month, March 19th, Chikuni Community Radio was recognized by , the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) for its exceptional dedication to engaging and educating its audience. During an awards ceremony at the station, IBA Acting Director General Susan Dumingu praised its consistency in delivering quality programming across education, agriculture, and culture.

In recognition of its regulatory compliance, Chikuni Radio was awarded Best Community Radio Station for its commitment to meeting licensing obligations, ensuring uninterrupted broadcasting. Ms. Dumingu highlighted that this dedication reflects the station’s strong desire to serve the community effectively.

Meanwhile, Managing Director Fr. Andrew Lesniara called for greater support for community radio stations, noting that many struggle to sustain operations due to financial constraints. He urged stakeholders to assist in keeping these vital communication platforms running.

Chikuni Radio remains dedicated to Chikuni Mission. While Jesus never gave us a specific method for preaching, He provided us with powerful examples: preaching from mountaintops, plains, boats, synagogues, among tax collectors and sinners, and even speaking to a lone woman at the well. If we listen to the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit, we will find the right path to Service, so that, as St. Irenaeus said, ‘The glory of God is a human being fully alive.’

Cheers to Chikuni Radio—my first love in broadcasting and forever a part of my story.

From building studios to building lives—what a journey!

#ChikuniRadioAt25 #MyChikuniStory #VoiceOfThePeople

By, Communication Team

Chikuni Community Radio, Zambia.