Dr. Gracious Ariyo Applauds NRM for Liberalization, Boosts Country Radio Staff with UGX 2M Contribution

Rukungiri: The Director of 87.6 Country Radio Dr. Gracious Ariyo Kaazara, has praised the NRM government for the liberalization of the economy through privatization, which has allowed the public to establish their own projects in a free market.

Dr. Ariyo made these remarks on December 12, during the 2024 end-of-year celebrations for Country Radio staff, held at Kings Hotel in Rwobusisi cell, Kyamakanda parish, Buyanja sub-county Rukungiri district.

He noted that in the past, Uganda had only one radio station, Radio Uganda, now known as Uganda Broadcasting Services (UBC). This lack of alternatives made it difficult for communities to share information since accessing the station in Kampala was costly. He highlighted that the liberalization policy championed by President Museveni opened the economy, enabling the establishment of businesses like Country Radio. This has empowered listeners with the freedom to choose programs such as music, news, political shows, and sports.

Dr. Ariyo, who also serves as the University Secretary for Metropolitan International Universities, thanked Station Manager Jackie Tumuheirwe and the staff for their dedication. He encouraged them to start a savings scheme to support themselves during financial challenges and contributed UGX 2,000,000 towards the initiative.

Chairperson of the Listeners Association Onesimus Karuma, expressed gratitude to Dr. Ariyo for establishing a radio station in Rukungiri. He noted that Country Radio addresses the needs of listeners who felt overlooked by other stations and promotes fairness in programming.

Station Manager Jackie Tumuheirwe thanked God for protecting the radio and staff, and expressed appreciation to Dr. Ariyo for his consistent support and for initiating end-of-year celebrations that engage both listeners and staff. She also thanked listeners for their support through tuning in, placing adverts, and making announcements. Tumuheirwe promised to maintain unbiased programming and high-quality content.

She acknowledged the station’s partners for their continued support through advertisements and called on them to maintain this partnership in the coming year.

The Rukungiri District Communications Officer and Chief Guest Rebecca Koshaba commonly known as Becky, commended the Country Radio staff for their ethical conduct. She highlighted the radio’s positive impact on society, particularly in changing mindsets through informative programs and news bulletins.

Koshaba praised Country Radio for promoting unity and avoiding conflicts based on religion or ethnicity, encouraging other stations to follow this example.