Community reporting has never been a priority in Lesotho. The media is based in the capital city of Maseru and rural voices are rarely heard. Rural communities only make the news in negative stories or when a government official comes to officiate a development initiative. Given the increase in social and political problems in rural Lesotho, it is becoming more and more critical for rural communities to have an alternative media platform where they can have their voices heard and can discuss their own issues and possible solutions.
 
Lesotho’s only community radio station, established thanks to UNESCO funding, has been a great success in addressing local issues and attracting community participation and media stakeholders in Lesotho are keen to establish an equivalent station in their region. They recognise its importance in promoting citizen participation, defending cultural and linguistic diversity, and providing trusted information in a form that is easily understood and that enables communities to hold their leaders and institutions accountable.
 
In order to set up Moeling Community Radio, this proposal seeks funding for the purchase of broadcasting and production equipment and support for training staff and volunteers through hands-on training at the existing Mafeteng community radio.