Michael Tlhakudi

The lack of a community radio station in Motheo, the biggest district municipality in Free State, has been a source of concern among residents for years.

Motheo region comprises Bloemfontein, Botshabelo, Thaba Nchu, Wepener, Ladybrand, Clocolan, Tweespruit and Dewetsdorp.

Motheo has not had a community radio since the closure of BBT radio five years ago.

But in December, the story will change as Motheo region will become a proud owner of a community radio station, Motheo FM. The development comes after the Independent Communication Authority of South Africa, the broadcasting watchdog, granted the region a licence to operate.

The radio station will focus on developments in the region.

"Yes it's true Motheo FM has been granted a licence by Icasa," said Patrick Tsolo, spokesman for the Motheo local organising committee.

Tsolo, a seasoned radio presenter, producer and music compiler, said he was happy that the "silence" in Motheo was over.

"The Frequency 88, 5 FM will be a household name as a brand. The new radio station will serve the needs of the young people of Motheo region," said Tsolo.

After the closure of BBT FM, the region has struggled to set up a community station that would serve the needs of communities in the area.

Mosupatsela FM, which is based in Botshabelo, is the only community radio station in the region. But it does not cover the whole Motheo region.

Tsolo, who has been in the forefront of setting up the station, said acquiring the licence was not an easy task, but that reintroducing the station was inevitable.

Motheo FM will be broadcasting in English, Setswana, Sesotho IsiXhosa and Afrikaans.

It is expected to go on air on December 1.