This century has been dubbed the “digital” century, with the proliferation of various technologies and gadgets that have completely reshaped how we humans live our lives. There are self-driving electric cars, powerful drones, virtual reality gadgets, you name it. For communication, we have smartphones, tablets, wearables and a host of software on the internet that we use.

In spite of all these developments, radio continues to be the most compelling and powerful communication technology for more than a billion people in the world. The singular importance of radio in human affairs cannot be overstated. It has uses in education; promoting freedom of expression across cultures; encouraging discussion; giving journalists a platform to report facts and tell their stories and still provides a potent form of entertainment.

Rather than become obsolete, radio has kept up with the times and has blended with modern day technology into various forms and devices that continue to keep it relevant. In view of radio’s continued influence, UNESCO set aside 13th February every year to commemorate ‘World Radio Day’. According to UNESCO, ‘World Radio Day’ was set aside to celebrate broadcasts, improve international cooperation among radio broadcasters and encourage decision-makers to create and provide access to information through radio, including community radios.

In Ghana, we can certainly see the vast influence of radio in our social polity and the culture of freedom of speech and expression that has become a feature of our lives. Inarguably, radio is one of the most important ways Ghanaians express themselves to the powers that be.

On World Radio Day 2017, we have another chance to celebrate radio and how radio has helped shape our lives. This is a day to remember the unique power of radio to touch lives and bring togetherness in every corner of the globe.

See how Penplusbytes with support from Making All Voices Count used radio and new digital tools to give voice to the voiceless via https://youtu.be/CcBFRzYC0cQ