By: Joseph T. Weah, Nimba D-9 TV – Maryland County Correspondent
Contacts: 0775514475 / 0886357600 | Email: josephtweah93@gmail.com
Maryland, Liberia: – In the heart of Maryland County, southeastern Liberia, Voice of Pleebo 93.5FM, a once-vibrant community radio station, now stands on the brink of collapse, caught between political suppression and chronic underfunding.
In March 2021, the station was abruptly shut down by Pleebo City Mayor Wellington Karhn, who accused it of broadcasting hate messages and airing diverse political views that he claimed incited division. The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has since launched an investigation, emphasizing that broadcasting varied opinions is a democratic right, not a crime.
Despite its challenges, Voice of Pleebo has long served as a critical source of news, public service messaging, and civic education for thousands across Pleebo and surrounding rural communities. The station was among 30 community radio outlets selected under a USAID-Internews partnership aimed at building capacity and promoting local media development.
Yet, without sustained institutional and humanitarian support, Voice of Pleebo’s survival remains uncertain.
Why Community Radio Matters: More Than Just a Microphone
Community radio stations like Voice of Pleebo are more than media outlets, they are lifelines for rural and underserved populations. They bridge the gap between the government and citizens, provide timely health alerts, educational programming, and promote peaceful dialogue on governance and development.
When these voices go silent, entire communities lose access to critical information, especially in counties like Maryland where internet penetration and mainstream media access remain limited. The closure of such stations deepens the information divide, weakens civic participation, and stifles community progress.
A Call for Collective Action
To resuscitate and sustain stations like Voice of Pleebo, concerted efforts are needed from national authorities, civil society, development partners, and philanthropic organizations. This includes:
- Financial assistance to resume operations;
- Provision of basic broadcast equipment and solar power solutions;
- Capacity building for journalists and staff;
- Advocacy for media freedom and community radio protection laws.
The situation at Voice of Pleebo reflects broader national challenges, with many community radio stations across Liberia struggling under similar conditions. Investing in these stations is an investment in democracy, development, and the right to information.
Those interested in supporting the revival of Voice of Pleebo 93.5FM are encouraged to reach out directly through available contact points or collaborate with local media development organizations. Amplifying this issue via social media and advocacy networks can help galvanize public attention and attract support.
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