Assessing the Role of Community Radio in Promoting Environmental Sustainability in Ghana: A Case Study of Denkyembour District

Abstract

The study examined the role of community radio in promoting environmental sustainability in Ghana using Denkyembour district as a case. The study relied on the mixed methods approach, with questionnaire, interview schedule and focus group discussion as the research instruments. A total of 100 respondents made up of community members and staff of three radio stations were involved in the study using purposive and convenience sampling techniques. Quantitative data obtained was analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation whilst content analysis was done for the qualitative data. The study found that community radio stations contribute to the engagement in civic education and promotion of peace building consensus in the district. Also, community radio stations in the district have put in place measures such media discourses on environmental issues, public education on bushfires and public education on deforestation in promoting environmental sustainability in the district. However, financial constraints, poor technology, logistical challenges, unstable power supply in the region, among others hampered efforts of community radio stations to promote environmental sustainability in the district. This study recommends the introduction of awards by government, Ghana Journalist Association and corporate bodies to community radio stations that pay increased attention to environmental sustainability.