Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS) celebrated World Radio Day with a strong focus on innovation, artificial intelligence (AI) and the anticipated growth of community radio stations in the country.
EBIS Director Sabelo Dlamini emphasised the organisation’s readiness as government moves toward licensing community radio stations that will compete in the national broadcasting space.
Dlamini said EBIS, which will mark its 60th anniversary on April 11, was optimistic about the future of broadcasting in Eswatini.
“We are looking forward to more radio stations across the country. One of our main mandates remains being the voice of the nation,” he stated.
He underscored the enduring importance of radio in connecting with communities, stressing that it remains a vital platform for information, education and entertainment.
Highlighting innovation as central to EBIS’s strategy, Dlamini pointed to a special simulcast linking EBIS with local and regional stations across the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
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“This simulcast demonstrates that we are embracing new ways to broadcast, connecting live with stations locally and in the SADC region. This day is celebrated worldwide and we are in a simulcast,” he said.
The initiative reflects the organisation’s broader efforts to modernise and expand its reach beyond traditional broadcasting towers.
Dlamini revealed that EBIS is also exploring innovative formats such as podcasts. He highlighted the growing popularity of Echoes of the Kingdom, hosted by Sinethemba Dlamini.
“We are also expanding our presence on social media platforms, reaching audiences beyond traditional towers,” he said.
The move signals EBIS’s commitment to engaging younger and digitally connected audiences.
Addressing concerns around artificial intelligence, Dlamini stressed that AI should be viewed as a tool for improving efficiency rather than replacing jobs.
“AI is not curated to take jobs. However, if we do not embrace it, it will become a challenge. We must use it to enhance the way we work,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming EBIS’s commitment to innovation and audience engagement.
“Our main goal is to maintain strong engagement with our audience while exploring every opportunity technology offers to improve how we serve the nation.”
