The Helderberg has a new voice on the airwaves with the launch of Radio Melkbaai.
Born from community discussions and a desire for a positive local platform, the station aims to serve both the Muslim and broader communities of the Helderberg area, including Sir Lowry’s Pass, Kramat, Sandvlei, and Macassar.
The idea for Radio Melkbaai arose from community leaders recognising the need for a station that authentically represented the “image” of the community.
After months of planning, the vision became a reality about six months ago.
“The idea of a radio station came about by virtue of countless discussions from within the community, at various levels, by various community leaders, based on a sincere concern for the need of a positive voice from the community to the community,” executive member of Radio Melkbaai, Abdullah Gabier, said.
The station, currently operating online at www.melkbaai.co.za, is temporarily located in First Street, Strand, with plans to move to a permanent studio in Main Road, opposite the Friedman & Cohen building. While currently online, the station aspires to secure an FM frequency.
Radio Melkbaai boasts a dedicated team, including founders Naym Daniels and Nur-Ali Baderoen, and a management team comprising Sheikh Naasiegh Latief, Ashfak Abrahams, Moulana Ghaliel Brinkhuis, Zaheer Bagus, Tahier Gabier, Rashaad Haynie, and Fadia and Abdullah Gabier.
Notably, the station has also trained 16 local youths in various radio skills, from presenting to engineering and journalism.
What sets Radio Melkbaai apart, according to its management, is its commitment to serving the Helderberg communities by broadcasting local news and engaging directly with residents.
“This radio station is unique in that it aims to serve the communities of Helderberg and the surrounding communities, through broadcasting pertinent local, newsworthy stories, whilst engaging directly with the community telling their stories daily,” stated Gabier.
The station operates as a non-profit company, relying on public funding, government programmes, sponsorships, and local business support, with initial support from businesses like Food Planet takeaways.
Long-term, they plan to build revenue through advertising and project partnerships, aiming to stimulate the local economy.
Radio Melkbaai emphasises community involvement, with programming focused on local stories, events, and issues. They recently broadcasted live from events such as the Boland Islamic Council Women’s League Pink Walk, the Madrassa-Tur-Rajaa High School athletics meeting, and the Nurul-Islam Ramadaan Expo.
Plans are underway to broadcast live from local mosques during Ramadan.
“The goal of Radio Melkbaai is also to outside broadcast all major events within the community in order to take the radio and voice of the community to the community,” Gabier said.
While enthusiastic about their mission, the station acknowledges challenges, particularly securing an FM license and maintaining financial stability. They invite community members and businesses to partner with them through advertising, projects, or contributions.
Radio Melkbaai aims to be a vehicle for positive change, focusing on issues like youth unemployment, substance dependency, and gender-based violence. They hope to connect the community with decision-makers and provide opportunities for local talent.
“We are exceptionally proud of what Radio Melkbaai has achieved already, and particularly on our youth colleagues in their progress, and contribution to something very special,” they said.
“To the community of Helderberg, we encourage you to commit to Radio Melkbaai’s success and the success of our community in partnering with us on our journey of creating a vehicle for change.”
The station encourages the community to contribute to programming by contacting their broadcasting and production team or emailing info@melkbaai.co.za. They need feedback to ensure their programming meets the community’s needs.
