The Role of Radio Programming on Key Development Agenda of The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): A Case of Top Congo Fm

Abstract

Radio is a key medium for public discourse in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), especially where access to other media is limited. Despite its prominence, research has focused mainly on peacebuilding, with limited attention to radio’s alignment with national development priorities. Growing commercialization also raises questions about whether radio can sustain its developmental role. This study examines Top Congo FM, the country’s most influential broadcaster, to assess how its programming engages with the DRC’s five strategic development pillars: economic diversification, human capital development, governance, infrastructure, and sustainable development. Guided by Media Development Theory and Agenda-Setting Theory, the study pursued three objectives: to examine alignment of development-oriented programmes with the national agenda; to identify strategies and challenges in promoting development through programming; and to assess audience perceptions of relevance and impact. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed, combining content analysis of five purposively sampled programmes, a survey of 198 listeners, and semi-structured interviews with producers and presenters. Findings indicated partial but uneven alignment. Programmes emphasized governance and human capital development, with limited attention to infrastructure and sustainability. Interviews highlighted editorial decisions and structural constraints, including limited resources and political pressures. Survey results reinforced these patterns, showing high listenership, frequent recommendations, and improvements in understanding and behavior related to development themes. The study concludes that Top Congo FM is a credible actor in development communication, fostering awareness, civic participation, and accountability, though constrained by thematic imbalances. By linking media practices to national policy priorities, this research contributes to both theory and practice, offering insights for media practitioners, policymakers, and development partners on leveraging radio for sustainable development in fragile contexts.