‘Pirate’ radio, convergence and reception in Zimbabwe

Mabweazara, H. M. (2013) ‘Pirate’ radio, convergence and reception in Zimbabwe. Telematics and Informatics, 30(3), pp. 232-241. (doi: 10.1016/j.tele.2012.02.007)

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Abstract

Using a qualitative research approach, this study examines the appropriation of digital technologies and their implications for the reception of the so-called ‘pirate’ radio in Zimbabwe. It specifically explores how the use of the Internet (and its associated digital technologies), including the mobile phone by two prominent ‘underground’ radio stations, Short Wave (SW) Radio Africa and Voice of America’s Studio 7, beaming into Zimbabwe from the UK and the US, respectively, has impacted on the reception of their content. Drawing on reception theory, the paper highlights the ambiguities and complexities associated with the reception of (pirate) radio in the era of convergence in Africa. It argues that while both SW Radio Africa and Studio 7’s multiple digital transmission strategies have broadened the range of options available for the reception of their content (albeit in disproportionate ways), traditional forms of reception remain in force. This is largely because of enduring questions of access to digital technologies (especially the Internet), and the lasting connections between traditional live radio and the oral traditions of local culture. These contextual factors sustain reception practices that differ markedly from the scenario in the economically developed world of the North where digital technologies have radically redefined radio reception practices. Similarly, the mobile phone has expanded options for the generation and reception of news content from the radio stations thus pointing to the fact that in Africa convergence can indeed assume unique forms, shaped by an intricate combination of local socio-economic and cultural factors.

Item Type:Articles
Additional Information:This study was completed thanks to a research grant awarded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in collaboration with the Centre for Media and Transitional Societies (CMTS) at Carleton University, Canada.
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Mabweazara, Dr Hayes
Authors: Mabweazara, H. M.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Sociology Anthropology and Applied Social Sciences
Journal Name:Telematics and Informatics
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0736-5853
ISSN (Online):1879-324X
Published Online:21 March 2012

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