Gunjur’s Radio JannehKoto FM Returns to the Airwaves After Years of Silence

After years of silence on the airwaves, Gunjur Radio JannehKoto FM has officially resumed broadcasting, bringing back a vital platform for community engagement, education, and entertainment. The station was relaunched at a colourful and well-attended inauguration ceremony held on Friday, 11 July 2025 in Gunjur.

The event was graced by an impressive line-up of dignitaries including Gambia’s Minister of Information, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, the Alikalo of Gunjur Dembo Darboe, Imam Ratib of Gunjur Muhammed Lamin Touray, President of the Supreme Islamic Council Alhagie Essa Darboe, and the Chief of Kombo South Falalo M. Touray. Also present were religious leaders, youth representatives, women’s representatives, and other community stakeholders who welcomed the return of a voice they say had been deeply missed.

In his keynote address, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay described the reopening as “a significant milestone for community of Gunjur, Kombo South and beyond, saying that rye role of radio is to inform, educate and entertain.” He emphasised the importance of local media in fostering dialogue, sharing information, and amplifying the voices of rural communities often left out of national conversations.

Dr. Ceesay further pledged his support for the radio station, promising to assist in the training and capacity-building of staff to ensure quality programming and sustainable operations. “This station is for the people of Gunjur, Kombo South and this radio is my radio because I’m from Brikama and the CEO is one of the people who supported us in Sweden, and therefore we must ensure it has the human resources and skills necessary to serve its purpose effectively,” he said.

The Alikalo of Gunjur, Dembo Darboe, praised the efforts of those who made the reopening possible and urged residents to support the radio station, which he called “a beacon of knowledge and unity for the people of Gunjur and beyond.”

Founded by Sweden-based scholar and Imam, Sheikh Seedy Ali Janneh, Gunjur Radio JannehKoto FM was established as a community-driven initiative to inform, educate, and entertain listeners while promoting cultural values and social cohesion and religious education. The station initially gained popularity for its blend of educational programs, religious talks, local news, and music that reflected the rich traditions of Kombo South.

However, the radio went off air several years ago due to logistical and technical challenges. Its absence left a vacuum in local broadcasting, particularly for residents who relied on the station for news and community discussions in their local languages.

The station’s management has promised to introduce new and innovative programming while maintaining its original mission of serving as the voice of the community. With its airwaves once again alive, Gunjur Radio JannehKoto FM is poised to reconnect with its loyal audience and attract a new generation of listeners eager for relevant, locally-produced content.