Amplio Ghana proudly celebrates Fidelis Da-uri, our colleague and a champion for rural communities, as the recipient of the prestigious Farm Radio International 2025 George Atkins Communication Award. This award recognizes Fidelis' exceptional dedication to rural broadcasting, particularly his impactful work as a Social and Behavior Change (SBC) specialist addressing critical issues like climate change, health, and peacebuilding. We sat down with Fidelis to learn more about his journey.
Fidelis, congratulations on this incredible achievement! Tell us, what sparked your passion for radio broadcasting?
Fidelis Da-uri: "Growing up in a rural farming community, I saw firsthand the struggles my father and other farmers faced accessing vital information. A whole year could pass without them receiving any agricultural extension services! That, combined with high illiteracy rates, made me realize the power of communication to bridge those knowledge gaps. I was known as the 'walking radio boy' – always with a radio glued to me. I'd gather people around to listen to development programs. Hearing broadcasters like Mr. Hassan Serinye, Nayaro Foroko, and Gladys Nebenienaa inspired me. I knew radio could be a lifeline for marginalized communities."
Your career has taken you from "walking radio boy" to award-winning broadcaster. Can you share some key moments?
Fidelis Da-uri: "My real journey started in 2012 during my National Service with Amplio Ghana. I got to host my first recording – a program with a midwife and nutritionist. That was a pivotal moment. It solidified my passion, and I went on to produce SBC messages for Amplio Ghana. I'm still doing that today, while also broadcasting at Jirapa FM. I've also been fortunate to learn from organizations like Farm Radio International. Their training, especially the e-courses, has been invaluable. I even received their Silver Star Performers Award in 2014!"
You're known for your ability to connect with rural communities. What are your strengths as a broadcaster?
Fidelis Da-uri: "I believe in culturally relevant, participatory programming. It's about understanding the specific needs of underserved communities, especially small-scale farmers. I'm passionate about creating engaging content that makes a real difference. I use storytelling, mini-dramas, local songs – whatever resonates with the audience. For example, I developed radio scripts for GIZ's Resilience Against Climate Change (REACH) project, broadcasting in five local languages! And for a USAID peacebuilding initiative, I produced 24 drama episodes in three languages promoting peace and social cohesion and addressing farmer-herder conflicts. We even formed Radio Listening Groups to discuss the episodes, and it contributed to reducing tensions!"
How do you ensure your listeners' voices are heard?
Fidelis Da-uri: "That's crucial. We have call-in segments, community dialogues – various ways for listeners to share their experiences and ask questions. During our climate-smart agriculture series, we had a live discussion with local farmers. One farmer, who didn't even have a phone, said how important these dialogues were for people like him to be heard. That's what it's all about – giving everyone a voice."
Your programs are known for being both informative and engaging. What's your secret?
Fidelis Da-uri: "It's about finding the right balance. Mini-dramas bring stories to life, expert interviews offer valuable insights, and listener participation makes it interactive. I also use local music, sound effects – elements that resonate culturally. For gender-related topics, we have dedicated phone lines for women and girls. It's about creating a program that people enjoy listening to, while also learning something valuable."
Fidelis, your work truly embodies Amplio Ghana’s mission. Any final thoughts?
Fidelis Da-uri: "I'm incredibly grateful for this award. It's a huge honor. I'm also thankful for my partnership with Farm Radio International. Their support has been essential. Ultimately, it's about serving the community and using radio to make a positive impact. That's what drives me."
Amplio Ghana is immensely proud of Fidelis' achievements. His dedication and passion for radio broadcasting are an inspiration to us all. Happy World Radio Day, Fidelis!