Public
Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), yesterday conducted a day-long knowledge
sharing forum for community radio stations held at its head office along
Kairaba Avenue.
The
objective of the forum was to discuss the communication sector related issues
with a view to take the necessary approaches needed to enhance growth.
Momodou
Jallow, of PURA said the forum is an important milestone in the Authority’s
efforts to effectively regulate all the sectors as mandated by the 2001 PURA
Act.
He
said regulation is not meant to be a restricting factor but rather a creator of
equity in joint developmental efforts.
Mr
Jallow said Gambians are very much aware of the activities of the Authority,
saying they (PURA) relies and will continue to rely on and strengthen
collaboration with the media and the dissemination of important information to
the public.
“PURA
will continually try to create the enabling framework to ensure that the
optimal benefits are realised for all stakeholders,” he said.
He
said among PURA’s objectives is to include the preservation and promotion of
consumer interests which community radios continued to help in publishing its
consumer awareness initiatives with a philosophical focus to address critical
consumer related issue in the regulated industry.
Alieu
Ngum, PURA board chairman said in furtherance of its commitment towards
ensuring the growth and development of community radio deployment, the
Authority since inception has never charged regulatory fees on community
radios.
Mr
Ngum said from the development of regulatory framework to its most recent move
to allow for growth, the Authority has ensured that Gambia remains relevant
among nations adopting international best practices in the broadcasting sphere.
Deputy
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communication
Infrastructure, Amie Njie said as the sector regulator responsible for
licensing in broadcasting, PURA’s objectives are firmly anchored on the
promotion of inclusively for all regulated sectors regardless of location.
She
said community radios have now become important fabric in the broadcasting
ecosystem, saying quantity does not always equate to quality programming.
She
applauded community radios and encouraged them to continue helping by detailing
community related issues and amplifying awareness initiatives, saying that will
serve as a critical anchor in promoting community improvement and development.
