ELLE FM: Radio station becomes beacon of hope in eastern DR Congo

In the heart of Goma, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, stands a symbol of resilience. Radio station ELLE FM is a vital source of information and hope in a region plagued by conflict. Established three years ago, the station has weathered attacks and looting amid ongoing armed violence. Despite these challenges, ELLE FM remains steadfast in its mission to inform, educate, and inspire the community, serving as a beacon of resilience in the face of adversity.

ELLE FM's mid-morning show is a staple for residents of Goma, offering a blend of entertainment and crucial news. However, the station operates under harsh conditions, with the region currently controlled by M23 rebels. As local media struggles to function in a volatile environment, the station's journalists continue their work despite significant threats to their safety and freedom.

Rose Mathe, a radio presenter at ELLE FM, speaks candidly about the challenges faced by journalists in the area:

"When there is a security crisis, or when armed conflict affects an area, media personnel are often the first victims," she explains. "We, who work in radio and are called upon to inform the community, are also affected. Freedom of expression should be guaranteed for all media personnel, but that's not the case right now. Journalists find it difficult to remain impartial in such a context."

The staff at ELLE FM, which translates to "SHE" in French, work diligently to provide accurate information while navigating the dangers of a highly polarized and unpredictable environment.

"Although the conditions are extremely critical, we are not obliged to take sides or show bias in our reporting. Our job is to continue informing the population and to be agents of change and peace, because that's what the people need," Mathe says.

For the residents of Goma, radio has always been an essential tool for staying informed. Local resident Guerschom Katembo emphasizes the role of radio in daily life:

"Radio has always been of paramount importance, because whatever we may be unaware of in life, we can find all the information we need through it. Whether it's religious, economic, cultural, or political news, radio helps us overcome ignorance and provides knowledge that can benefit the entire community."

Goma businessman Rodrigue Bahati agrees:

"For me, radio is important because that's how we get our news. Unfortunately, radios are no longer being sold. We don't know why, but we've noticed that people aren't buying them. Maybe it's because there's no money in town anymore."

Over the past three years of conflict, several journalists have been arrested or even killed, highlighting the dangers reporters face in the region. Yet, despite growing threats, ELLE FM remains committed to its mission of providing crucial news and fostering peace in a community under siege.

In a region where the media is often caught in the crossfire of conflict, ELLE FM continues to stand strong, proving that even in the darkest times, the power of information can shine through as a lifeline for those caught in the chaos.

As Goma's residents rely on the radio station to keep them informed and connected, ELLE FM's unwavering dedication serves as a reminder that journalism can be a source of hope, even in the most challenging of circumstances.