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 is using community radio for advocacy and capacity building.
Earlier the council used to post their information on the Municipal notice board, it was hard for citizens to go and read on the updates, they also used cars for public announcement but there was poor response from the public in participating on the councillors meetings,
“Jukwaa La Sera Na Uwajibikaji” a radio program sponsored by Policy Forum, on the program we discuss different topics, engaging citizens, councils, mayor and member of Parliaments, aiming to motivate the society on accountability, available policies and good governance.
Video
Long Term Benefits
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.
Lessons Learnt
- "There has been a big gap in awareness between the leaders and citizens, with the program it has helped to understand their rights and their limitations, more over on how they can get their rights", FRANK NYALUSI- Councilor of Mivinjeni.
- Radio has a great role in enhancing public development, they have capacity to communicate and help the government to reach a specific place and provide service.
- These community radios, private and NGOs owned, can help the council to raise awareness to the people on how the government works.