Citizen alienation from public debate and a lack of voice in policy processes have the potential to contribute to inadequate policy formulation and, in the long run, perpetuating a circle of poverty. To improve citizen engagement and influence policy processes in Tanzania, Policy Forum uses community radio for advocacy and capacity building.

The community radios plays vital role in bridging the community and government, the poor public participation in development matters affects the implementation of the development projects, minimizes transparency, contributes to poor utilization of the development projects and results to underdevelopment. there is a need of supporting and giving priority to the communication for development.

Every week through Nuru FM in Iringa, Safari FM in Mtwara, Kahama FM, and Lindi FM in Kahama and Lindi, respectively, Policy Forum is breaking the barriers of distance and illiteracy in rural areas in Tanzania. The radios that address local issues offer CSOs, public and municipal officials a platform to deliberate on issues affecting them. In Mtwara Region, parents in Mtendachi Village, in collaboration with CSOs in the region, mobilized the public and government officials to contribute to complete constructing classrooms for school going children in the area.

The intervention provides a platform for CSOs and populations in marginalized areas to engage with local voices and perspectives, and a means to articulate their needs. Active citizen participation in policy issues can contribute to progressive social change and enhance the quality of policy outcomes.

The radio programs supported by Policy Forum increase understanding and public awareness on the existing policies, enhances public participation which results to community development, moreover bridges government authorities and local community which enhances transparency, accountability and improve service delivery.