We have seen a big increase in the number of radio stations in the country recently. This is positive for a number of reasons. Firstly it shows that there are eager enthusiastic and motivated entrepreneurs in the country who are willing to take risks in the world of private media business. The second benefit is that the people of The Gambia now have more choice. Choice is very important when it comes to the media. People should have access to a wide variety of media so that they can experience different types of music, views and opinions.

There is more than one newspaper in the country and this is positive. We hope that the number will continue to increase and with it people’s access to information. The next big step we wish to see is another television service. GRTS is a public broadcasting service and is doing its job well. People should however have a choice. A private television station would not be bound by the same constraints in relation to public service broadcasting and so would provide a complimentary service as opposed to a conflicting one.

A new television station would also create employment and open doors to those who wish to make a career in the media.

Variety is the spice of life so why should we not enjoy more choice when it comes to television as we do in other forms of media?

If some private company, individual or group of individuals approaches the government and wishes to open a new station they should be allowed. A new station would be very popular with our ever-growing population and would help broaden people’s access to alternative sources of information.

Of course any new venture would be a private enterprise and would not benefit from government funding. The revenue would be generated through advertising. There is no doubt that there is a large enough population in this country to support a station should a service be established and we look forward to the day when it becomes a reality.