Radio stations across West Africa are increasingly embracing peace journalism as a powerful tool to promote unity, resolve community disputes, and counter misinformation.

Leading the shift is Radio Peace 88.9 FM in Ghana’s Central Region, which has used community-focused programming since 1999 to address local disputes and promote dialogue. Station Manager David Kwesi Ghartey-Tagoe said their participatory approach has reduced tensions during major cultural events and helped restore harmony.

In Nigeria, the Kaduna State Media Corporation (KSMC) recently launched peace-centered radio programs to de-escalate tensions after violence in Plateau State. With five stations broadcasting in local languages, KSMC reaches millions with messages of peace and social cohesion.

In Cameroon, peace journalism is gaining traction as well. Voice of Manyu radio once helped settle land disputes through factual, community-based reporting. Media leaders there, including DASH TV’s Peter Nsoesie, are now designing peace journalism frameworks for broader use.

Despite challenges such as limited resources and security threats, broadcasters across the region believe radio’s trusted reach makes it the ideal platform for building peace. As Nananom FM‘s Mohammed Umar Al-Hussein puts it, “The world has seen enough of conflict. Radio can help us change the story.”