Voice of America is launching a new Swahili program to East Africa.
“The Kenyan government has banned local radio and television stations from broadcasting coverage of the post-election crisis that has left over 300 people dead and thousands displaced from their homes,” VOA stated, and its programming is thus more critical now.
It said the daily program will include news reports from throughout the country, analysis and discussion. Featured on the first show was U.S. presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, who called on Kenyans to seek progress through democracy and the rule of law rather than violence.
The new 30-minute program will be heard in Kenya weekday mornings at 6 a.m. via shortwave (7380 and 9440 kHz). VOA also airs a Swahili evening program on shortwave among other offerings to East Africa.
The interview with Obama can be heard online.