KUWAIT: Kuwait joined countries around the world on Thursday in celebrating World Radio Day, an annual event that highlights the role of radio in promoting freedom of expression and fostering values of tolerance and respect for diversity across communities.

World Radio Day serves as an opportunity to recognize radio as a powerful medium that strengthens international cooperation between broadcasting organizations. It encourages major networks and local radio stations to improve access to information, support freedom of expression, and make the most of the potential of this vital tool. The day also aims to raise awareness about the importance of public audio services, urging decision-makers to enhance the role and status of free, independent, and pluralistic radio stations, while strengthening their network connections.

Celebrated on February 13 each year, World Radio Day was declared by UNESCO member states in 2011 and later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 as an international observance. This date celebrates radio’s essential role in promoting communication, respecting diversity, and providing a platform for democratic discourse.

A rich archive

For nearly seven decades, Kuwait has placed significant importance on radio. Kuwait Radio, one of the first radio stations in the Arab world, has been at the forefront since its launch in 1951. Over the years, it has contributed greatly to the media landscape with influential local and Arab media figures and a rich archive documenting its long-standing impact in various fields.

The Kuwait Radio library holds a treasure trove of recordings and interviews with artists, scholars, intellectuals, and other notable figures from across the Arab world. It also houses many outstanding dramatic works, making it a unique artistic resource not found in other radio stations.

Continuing its development, the Ministry of Information launched several important media initiatives, including the creation of a national heritage radio station in 2022, under the name “Dar Al-Iza.” This station specializes in broadcasting classic dramatic works, series, songs, and archival materials, reflecting the rich history of radio production.

The station not only serves as a nostalgic platform for older generations but also guides younger audiences toward authentic and traditional arts. It celebrates the timeless music and cultural content that has been broadcast by Kuwaiti radio since 1951.

Several awards

In recognition of its excellence in radio production, Kuwait Radio has won several prestigious awards over the years. Notably, in February 2019, it took first place for the number of program hours at the annual meeting of Arab Radio and Television Organizations in Algeria, setting a record with 20 programs. In June 2023, the Ministry of Information won three awards at the 23rd ASBU Radio and TV Festival in Tunisia, organized by the Arab States Broadcasting Union.

Most recently, in May 2024, it claimed 12 awards at the Gulf Radio and Television Festival in Manama, Bahrain. Kuwait Radio, which was established on February 14, 1951, and broadcast its first program on May 12 of the same year, has undergone continuous development over the decades to keep up with global advancements in broadcasting, technology, and program diversity, further strengthening its national radio capabilities. — KUNA