Ruben FM Scaling Beyond

Community radio operations are guided by the principle of community ownership and a sense of belonging. In Kenya, there are community radio stations in almost every informal settlement in the 47 counties. In Nairobi, for instance, 99.9 FM frequencies have community radio stations operating in almost every informal settlement, including Ruben FM that broadcasts from Ruben Centre and reaches over 600,000 people in Mukuru slums. For almost seven years, Ruben FM has made tremendous achievements and impacted the Mukuru community positively.

Ruben FM is one of the few radio stations in Kenya that owns an outside broadcast system. The team, led by the Radio Station Manager, has developed a strategy of taking the radio to its audience during the live broadcast of continuity shows. This strategy is aimed at strengthening the relationship between the radio and the Mukuru community and boosting the radio's income by advertising for its clients during the live sessions.

On 21st April 2023, Ruben FM held its first outside broadcast show in partnership with Muhindi Mweusi Supermarket, the most popular supermarket in Mukuru Kwa Njenga. The afternoon broadcast attracted a huge crowd consisting of both new and regular listeners. The audience was excited to see a basic radio studio set up outdoors, and the day's activities included live broadcast of Kuza 254 and Champion Show programs, live news anchoring from the news team, live entertainment from a volunteer DJ, promotion of clients' adverts, one-on-one interactions between presenters and community members, live talk-back discussion on the importance of financial savings among the youth, promotion of Ruben Centre services, and rewarding the audience with promotional give-aways from Muhindi Mweusi Supermarket.

The outside broadcast sessions have been instrumental in creating a stronger bond between Ruben FM and the Mukuru community. These sessions allow the radio to interact with its audience on a personal level and provide them with relevant information that they can use to improve their lives. Additionally, the sessions provide a platform for local businesses to advertise their products and services, contributing to the economic growth of the community.

Story: Robert Botere & GB.

Edits: GB

Photos: Courtesy