Choice is important

We have seen a big increase in the number of radio stations in the country recently. This is positive for a number of reasons.

Firstly, it shows that there are eager, enthusiastic and motivated entrepreneurs in the country who are willing to take risks in the world of private media business.

The second benefit is that the people of The Gambia now have more choice.

Choice is very important, when it comes to the media.

People should have access to a wide variety of media, so that they can experience different types of music, views and opinions.

There is more than one newspaper in the country, and this is positive. We hope that the number will continue to increase, and with it people’s access to information.

The next big step we wish to see is another television service.

GRTS is a public broadcasting service, and is doing its job. People should, however, have a choice.

A private television station would not be bound by the same constraints in relation to public service broadcasting, and so would provide a complementary service as opposed to a conflicting one.

A new television station would also create employment, and open doors to those who wish to make a career in the media.

Variety is the spice of life; so why should we not enjoy more choice when it comes to television, as we do in other forms of media?

A new television station would be very popular with our ever-growing population, and would help broaden people’s access to alternative sources of information.

Of course, any new venture would be a private enterprise, and would not benefit from government funding. The revenue would be generated through advertising.

There is no doubt that there is a large enough population in this country to support a station should a service be established, and we look forward to the day when it becomes a reality.

“Every mind must make its choice between truth and repose. It cannot have both.”

Anonymous