BY OBAKENG MAJE
Modiri FM is a community Radio started more than three years ago. It is a community radio station that brings development to the life-style of everyone in South Africa.
Modiri FM’s Programmes Manager, Matthews Mokgaje said it is a platform where government, local municipalities and Dikgosi inform the geographic community about local projects and developments.
Modiri FM is broadcasting from Atamelang at Ngaka Modiri Molema district.
“We are surrounded by different villages in areas like Tswaing, Ratlou, Mahikeng and also Naledi local Municipality. During our first year of broadcast, Modiri FM presenter managed to win the best community radio deejay award at South African Traditional Music Award(SATMA) through the efforts being taken by the station,” Mokgaje said.
He said Modiri FM was the only station that won that type of category within the North West province.
Matthews Mokgaje who is affectionately known as Lefika in entertainment fraternity, was born back in the mid 70’s from the christian family at Kopela village.
“I started my school days at Kopela Primary school and went to Ramokonyane Middle School. I completed my matric at Phatsima High School at Atamelang near Delareyville” Mokgaje said.
Mokgaje said he was inspired by former radio personalities from Mmabatho FM and Radio Sunshine. They were creative and innovative. I am a humble person who believes in me and working hard to achieve good results” he said.
Mokgaje who has completed Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication at North West University (Mafikeng Campus), said he started internship program at Radio Teemaneng in Kimberly.
“I was unemployed for a period of two years, but I never lost hope. In 2005, I started Mafikeng Community Radio Station in conjunction with Modisaotsile Bantsheng. That was the most difficult part of my life, because there was no funding to run the project” he said.
Mafikeng FM produced so many radio presenters and some are currently working for various national radio stations like Motsweding FM, North West FM and different institutions.
Mokgaje embarked on another initiative by starting Modiri FM which is currently one of the best community radio stations in North West.
-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_
website: www.modirifm.co.za
Contact: 0736651849
Facebook: Matthews Mokgaje
The Guardian 