The establishment of Radio Anguilla on April 9, 1969, as an offshoot of the 1967 Anguilla Revolution, was observed this week. Now in its 45th Anniversary, the Government-owned station, formally called the Department of Information and Broadcasting, is the island’s oldest media house.
Radio Anguilla, which has undergone many changes and improvements over the years, has a diverse range of local, regional and international programming, music and information.
“We must thank all former members of staff for paving the way for Radio Anguilla,” Mr Jerome Roberts, the Minister responsible for Information and Broadcasting, said in a radio address. “Former announcers, news writers and managers have gone on to fill many different sectors of Anguilla’s society. If it were not for the foundation that these men and women before us have laid, 45 years of Radio Anguilla would have been impossible.”
The Minister was also grateful to the present staff for their dedication and hard work in carrying forward the broadcasting service of Radio Anguilla. “The vital role the station plays in times of disaster emergency is something that cannot go without recognition,” he stressed. “This responsibility is taken very seriously. Coverage of significant national events such as House of Assembly meetings, the annual Anguilla Day Parade and the Anguilla Summer Festival are of high importance on Radio Anguilla’s agenda.”
Mr Roberts added: “Trust is the most important asset public broadcasting carries forward into its evolving public media future. Audiences rely on the information and perspectives from broadcasters as they make decisions in their public and personal lives. We owe it to our listeners to be fair, balanced and impartial. The world is changing faster than ever, and the world of radio with it. With a continuous aim of catering to the entire Anguillian community, Radio Anguilla, in these difficult economic times, is implementing many new local programmes with our society in mind.”
Radio Anguilla embarked on a week of activities in observance of its 45th Anniversary. The staff attended the Sunday service at the Kingdom Citizen’s Church in The Valley where they were welcomed by Pastor Rondy Isles-Carty and congregation. On Monday they presented a well-needed water cooler to Zenaida Haven, the home for boys, at Rey Hill. The gift was received with much appreciation and gratitude by Ms Dorn Henry, the Acting Supervisor of the public facility where there are currently nine juvenile residents.
Tuesday was open house day at Radio Anguilla where a number of school children and teachers visited the offices and studios. The other activities arranged were radio shows by former announcers on Thursday; a special edition of the Zone Radio Programme on Friday; and a reflection on reggae music on Radio Anguilla over the years.
