Diocese aims to empower rural populace with information

LAE’S Catholic Diocese is seeking to reach the rural majority in Morobe through broadcast media, Catholic Radio FM 103.7 director Fr Brian Nonde says.
Many people in isolated areas do not have access to newspapers and television and that makes it hard for them to be up to date with the latest news, public notices and awareness.
“That is why the Lae diocese is trying to grow and expand its radio broadcast to cover as many people for the purpose of information dissemination,” Nonde said.
He said FM 103.7 aimed to make people aware of developmental initiatives, health issues, education and other public announcements or community developments by the government, civil sectors, church and other non-government organisations.
Information empowerment is something people must have in order to make informed decisions to sustain their livelihoods wherever they are.
“We are spending money to get this broadcast equipment in place mainly to serve the people, so people have to make use of the radio in airing their views on developmental agendas and other subjects,” he said.
Nonde said people were welcomed to air their views.
He welcomed health and education professionals to air messages to people living in rural areas.
“We are giving an opportunity to people from all walks of life to deliver messages that will empower people.”