project

Pambazuko

Radio Show

Democratic Republic of the Congo

The characters and plotlines from Pambazuko ("New Dawn") inspired hundreds of thousands of Congolese listeners to make more equitable and sustainable choices for themselves and their communities. Partially funded by the Jane Goodall Institute, Pambazuko addressed local conservation efforts and increased the use of family planning and post-natal health services — all for the cost of $2.86 per loyal listener.

Making A Difference

Through the power of storytelling, Pambazuko moved listeners closer to a more equitable world for humans and ecosystems. Listeners reported being more active in several ecological conservation efforts, including animal protection and reforestation, and confirmed their commitment against violence toward women and children.

Global Sustainability

In order for Earth to thrive, humans must thrive in balance with nature. The overexploitation of the environment must stop.

Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Family Planning and Modern Contraception Ideal Family Size Ecological Conservation Gender Equality

Woman laughing with her head tilted back a bit. Over all pure joy.

Arial view of green jungle with fog over the mountains

Woman standing in front of stacks of fabric at her fabric shop

A Radio Drama for Apes

Using an entertainment-education approach to support ape conservation.

PMC produced Pambazuko in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This 156-episode show originally aired from February 2016 to August 2017 and was rebroadcast from 2018 t0 2019.

Pambazuko addressed reproductive health and education, two key drivers of population growth. Pambazuko also featured a storyline addressing great ape conservation.

Pambazuko was originally broadcast in five languages over 14 community radio stations in eastern Congo, including the former Oriental Province, Maniema, North Kivu, South Kivu, and the former Katanga Province.

As one of the organizations working in support of IUCN’s Conservation Action Plan, PMC rebroadcast Pambazuko in key locations bordering protected areas and community forests. The rebroadcast was funded by The Weeden Foundation, The Marisla Foundation, and The Jane Goodall Institute and aired on 12 community radio stations in Maniema, North Kivu, and South Kivu.