TWR broadcasts a programme in Kenya called “Beshte wa Mtaa”, meaning ‘friend in the neighbourhood’. It has inspired Raphael, a young man from the slums of East Africa, to start the Pamoja Youth Foundation. PYF, situated in Kibera, has attracted various listeners such as TV producers from KTN, a German foundation for world population from DSW, youth foundations, police officers and more.

PYF discovered they could work closest with young people in the schools within Kibera slums. They have been liaising with the Environmental Club to discuss relevant environmental issues.

They have also targeted Peace Clubs, discussing issues relating to clashes and conflict within the slums. PYF has assisted in establishing Peer Education Clubs to discuss issues affecting adolescents such as drug abuse, sexual reproductive health and behavioral change.

A Canadian working with a group called Shining Hope for the Community (SHOFCO) in Kibera listened to a live radio program on Associated Press (AP) where Raphael was being interviewed. SHOFCA immediately called him from Canada, as they were interested in TWR and the focus on the youth within the slums of East Africa. Raphael assisted with information on TWR’s frequencies and discussed his role in the production of the “Beshte wa Mtaa” programmes. The liaison between Raphael and SHOFCA led to opportunities for media training and a relationship between them and PYF has been created.

The school club members are also ardent listeners of the “Beshte wa Mtaa” radio programme. TWR is encouraged to hear that they get their ideas from TWR for discussions in their clubs. They visited Raila Education Center School where PYF had a tree planting day on May 18, 2007. Two trees were planted in honour of Trans Word Radio and “Beshte wa Mtaa”.

Many other schools in the neighbourhood want to build relationships with PYF and Raphael has promised to prove their friendship to all “youth wa mtaa.”

Published 11 September 2007