MISA Lesotho Commemorates World Radio Day 2025 Under Theme “Radio and Climate Change”

The Lesotho Chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) is today, February 13th, commemorating World Radio Day 2025 under the theme “Radio and Climate Change.” This year’s theme underscores the crucial role of radio in fostering dialogue on climate change, a topic that remains underexplored in public discourse despite its growing impact.

The Need for Climate Change Dialogue

One of the major challenges Lesotho faces is the lack of structured conversations around climate change. While its effects—such as erratic weather patterns, droughts, and floods—are increasingly visible, there are few national forums, seminars, or conferences to facilitate meaningful discussions on the issue. Without open platforms to dissect climate change and its implications, public awareness and national policy engagement remain limited.

According to MISA Lesotho’s National Director, Mr. Lekhetho Makhanya Ntsukunyane, there have been positive strides in climate change coverage by some local media houses. He acknowledged the growing number of programs and news segments dedicated to climate and environmental issues, which have helped to demystify the subject. However, he stressed that more needs to be done, particularly at the community level, where climate change is still largely misunderstood.

The Role of Radio in Climate Education

Radio remains one of the most accessible and powerful media platforms in Lesotho. It reaches remote areas where internet access is limited and literacy rates may affect the consumption of print media. By leveraging radio’s extensive reach, MISA Lesotho aims to bridge the knowledge gap and ensure that climate discussions move beyond boardrooms to engage citizens at the grassroots level.

Mr. Ntsukunyane highlighted the importance of national forums, seminars, and conferences dedicated to climate change. He emphasized that public participation is key to driving climate action and policy development. Without widespread understanding and community involvement, climate initiatives risk being met with skepticism or indifference.

A Call to Action

As Lesotho joins the global community in celebrating World Radio Day, MISA Lesotho is calling on media houses, policymakers, and civil society organizations to prioritize climate communication. This includes:

• Expanding radio programming on climate issues to make information more accessible to all citizens.
• Organizing national dialogues where experts, policymakers, and the public can share insights and solutions.
• Encouraging community participation in climate action initiatives.

With the growing climate crisis, radio can serve as a vital tool in shaping public understanding and mobilizing action. MISA Lesotho’s commitment to amplifying climate discussions through radio is a step toward ensuring that all Basotho are informed and engaged in the fight against climate change.