24/03/2026
Nyazema Community Radio Celebrates Big Win at Zimbabwe’s First Community Radio Awards
24 March 2026
By Staff Reporter
BULAWAYO — In a night that celebrated the vibrancy and artistic expression of Zimbabwe’s community broadcasting sector, Nyazema Community Radio emerged among the top performers at the inaugural Community Radio Awards, walking away with the coveted Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Award, while its broadcaster, Anesu Manzanga, was crowned Community Broadcaster of the Year.
The awards, hosted by the Zimbabwe Association of Community Radio Stations (ZACRAS) on Thursday, March 19, 2026, brought together both recently licensed community radio stations and emerging initiatives such as Nyazema Community Radio, reflecting the diversity and growth of grassroots broadcasting in Zimbabwe.
Held in Bulawayo, the ceremony marked a significant cultural moment, honouring excellence, innovation and resilience within a sector that continues to shape community narratives and preserve local voices. Since the licensing of community radio stations in 2019, these platforms have evolved into important cultural hubs, providing information while also nurturing storytelling traditions rooted in everyday experiences.
For Nyazema Community Radio, the recognition signals a breakthrough for digital-first community media. Operating under Macheke News, the initiative has distinguished itself through a creative fusion of technology and grassroots storytelling. Although not yet licensed as a terrestrial broadcaster, the platform has effectively utilised WhatsApp and social media channels to reach audiences, demonstrating that community radio can thrive beyond conventional airwaves.
Its programming captures the pulse of community life, covering developmental stories and social cohesion. In doing so, it has become both a storytelling platform and a space for dialogue, amplifying voices that are often absent from mainstream media.
The recognition of Anesu Manzanga as Community Broadcaster of the Year further cemented Nyazema’s standing on the national stage. Manzanga’s work reflects a strong commitment to authentic storytelling and community engagement, qualities that continue to define the emerging generation of broadcasters.
The latest accolade marks a growing legacy of excellence under Macheke News. In 2023, Macheke TV part of the same integrated media ecosystem received an award from the National AIDS Council for consistently and accurately reporting on HIV and AIDS issues, highlighting the organisation’s sustained commitment to impactful and socially responsive journalism.
The awards ceremony itself blended formality with artistic celebration, featuring presentations, reflections on the impact of community radio and an audio-visual journey showcasing the sector’s achievements. The event highlighted community broadcasting not only as a tool for development but also as a powerful cultural expression.
Supported by a wide network of partners, the awards recognised the efforts of broadcasters who often operate with limited resources yet continue to produce impactful content that informs, educates and inspires communities.
Nyazema Community Radio’s achievement underscores the shifting landscape of Zimbabwean media, where innovation and community participation are redefining how stories are told and shared.
“_This award is not just for Nyazema Community Radio, but for the entire community that continues to share its stories, challenges and aspirations through our platform_,” said by Bulelani Simbarashe Musokeri Station manager at Macheke News. _“It affirms that even with limited resources, community-driven media can create meaningful impact and contribute to national development.”_
As the sector continues to grow, the success of initiatives like Nyazema points to a future where community-driven platforms whether licensed or digital play an increasingly central role in shaping the country’s cultural and information ecosystem. Macheke News
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