Cape Town: The City Council has recently provided an in-principal approval for the sale of a property at a discounted rate in Khayelitsha to community radio broadcaster ‘Zibonele FM’.
The matter will now follow a due process to conclude the details of the sale agreement which will then be tabled at Council for the final approval.
Reportedly, the in-principal approval of the council follows an application by the community radio station Zibonele FM to purchase the property i.e. leasing from the City and the land next to it which is currently used by them also.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Growth – Alderman James Vos said that the local radio is essential for residents because it provides a platform for sharing stories and news which is promoting local initiatives and fostering community.
Vos said that this is a special case for Zibonele FM whose programmes are shaping informative discussions for their listeners and keeping residents updated over what is happening in their communities.
Zibonele FM took to the airwaves in 1993 and began its operations inside a shipping container. It became the first official community radio station of South Africa in 1995 after obtaining its broadcasting license.
Alderman Vos mentioned that the Mayoral Committee proposes a discount on the sale by recognising the social impact and community programmes of the station. “I’m pleased to confirm this has been well received, and I’ll continue working with the Property Transactions team to move it forward,” added James Vos.
He stated that the next step will be for the details related to the sale to be ironed out and finalise which will then be tabled at Council again for final approval.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis expressed that they are delighted to help make Zibonele FM the owners of the land from which they operate and will allow them to invest in and will expand their operations even more clearly.
They are one of the most cherished radio stations of the City of Cape Town and a real pillar of the Khayelitsha community and beyond. Lewis wished them a bright broadcasting future as owners of their property.
Notably, the approval of this sale will provide the station with stability to grow and expand services. This will also help in creating jobs and support local businesses. It also includes the radio station who provides an on-site accredited Radio Production Course for the learners.
Mayor Lewis confirmed that by adopting the proposal, they are approving a property sale that is investing in a resource that uplifts and unites the residents.