A 29-year-old Madalitso Leonard from Nkhoma in Lilongwe City has transformed his community by creating a community Timaitha FM using FM radio transmitter built from recycled components from old radios.
Madalitso’s journey to innovation began after dropping out of school in Form 4 due to financial constraints. He pursued his passion for electronics and radio technology through self-study and hands-on experimentation.
The young innovator, whose vision is to empower his community through information, education, and entertainment, Timaitha FM airs health programmes, entertainment shows and provides a platform for local youth to express their ideas on development.
“I want to educate, entertain, and inform my community,I believe everyone deserves a voice, especially the youth and the locals. By coming up with this idea I am hoping for their voice,”said Leonard.
This makeshift radio station has garnered significant community support, with listeners praising its unique content and local content coverage.
Ellah Danga a listener from the community has hailed Timaitha FM calling it their own
“Madalitso’s innovation is inspiring,Timaitha FM is more than just a radio station, it is a symbol of community empowerment and we are very proud of our own, “added Danga.
A research fellow Wongani Langa from the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) commended Madalitso’s innovation, but advised him to follow proper procedures to access university support under the Community Innovation Program.
“Timaitha FM has tremendous potential with proper registration and licensing, Madalitso can access resources and expertise to take his innovation to the next level,” said Langa
Madalitso’s dream is to establish Timaitha FM as an independent media house, creating job opportunities and promoting community development.
“I need support to make this dream a reality,Together, we can create a platform that truly serves our community, ” added Leonar.
In 2009, Police arrested Gabriel Kondesi for owning and operating a radio station in Mulanje, without owning a licence from Malawi communications regulatory authority (Macra).
When we asked Madalitso about that he said he is in the process of registering and soon he will.
