This manual describes the process for starting a local radio station—the organization of community support and planning, equipment needs, programming strategies, business growth and sustainability and journalistic ethics and standards.

Overview

This manual is divided into seven sections:

• Section One covers the first steps for establishing a radio station, such as developing the station’s mission, creating an organizational structure, the roles and responsibilities of people essential to operating a station, and getting your broadcasting and frequency licenses.
• Section Two is a guide for choosing the location of your station, designing a studio and selecting equipment.
• Section Three offers tips on the recruitment and placement of staff and volunteers, how to discuss work performance and negotiate conflicts among workers.
• Section Four focuses entirely on understanding community radio—what it is, its advantages for the community and how it can be organized.
• Section Five describes how to create interesting and informative radio programs. This section includes a discussion of radio as a medium, programming ideas, and tips on how to decide whether your programs meet the needs of your community.
• Section Six explains good financial management, gives guidelines for creating a business plan, offers marketing tips, and templates that can be used for financial reporting.
• Section Seven has two parts. The first part outlines crucial topics in ethics, including principles for ethical programming and conduct. The second part gives important information on Afghanistan’s Mass Media Law.

Usage: Guidance for project implementation

Audience: Communication staff

For versions in other languages, click here Manual in Dari, Manual in Pashto