For nearly 10 years, Bulungula Community Radio (BCR FM) has been a consistent and active presence in our community and region (and now, with streaming, even further!). Broadcasting live daily from 05h00–21h00 with the station playing audio throughout the day on air and online. It provides a consistent and trusted source of information, discussion, and entertainment.
Photos: DJ Mzu Mhlola first broadcast in 2017
In a digital era defined by live streaming, social media, and on-demand content, it might be expected that traditional radio would decline. However, in South Africa, radio remains one of the most widely used forms of media. Community radio is especially important because it provides locally relevant information in people’s home languages, reflecting the specific needs, concerns, and realities of its community. Especially in rural areas where distances can limit connectivity, it can help strengthen social cohesion. In Bulungula, the radio culture is alive and thriving!
Today, BCR reaches over 70 villages via FM and streams online across the country, and even has listeners outside of South Africa. The station tracks its reach through digital analytics, listener engagement, call-ins, and community feedback, helping to keep programming responsive and relevant. Beyond studio broadcasting, the team regularly conducts outreach in our community, sharing important information (such as health and hygiene) and broadcasting remotely from these sites.
The station’s credibility has grown steadily over time. On 26 February 2026, BCR was selected as one of the official community radio stations to broadcast the State of the Province Address delivered by Premier Oscar Mabuyane. BCR is also now working with other stations through the Eastern Cape Community Radio Forum, strengthening collaboration across the province.
In addition, BCR is progressing through the formal licensing process with ICASA, having successfully passed Phase 1 and now awaiting the outcome of Phase 2. This marks an important step toward long-term sustainability and formal recognition. Read more about the challenges of licensing here: https://groundup.org.za/article/community-radio-stations-challenge-icasa-over-rejected-licence-applications/
BCR is also a vibrant space for young people in our community. It creates opportunities for expression, skill development, and participation in media and the arts. Young presenters, producers, and artists can build confidence, develop practical skills, and share their perspectives.
One example is Mzi Sakabhe, “DJ Holder”, a musician, performer, and Job Skills and Entrepreneurship graduate. He first came to BCR in 2018 to record music and, with encouragement from the team, became involved in radio. He started with the Spaza Music Show and later co-created Vukanathi, a programme that helped extend the station’s broadcast into the early morning.
Mzi says that BCR has played a big role in his personal and professional development. His work in music and radio allows him to connect with people, tell stories, and express ideas that resonate with others. He has also continued to grow as an artist and, at the end of last year, won a laptop in a competition for his performance. Go Mzi!You can tune in now and support our local radio station! https://iono.fm/s/293
