A first for the continent as SA launches prison radio station: Here's what you need to know

Correctional services minister Ronald Lamola has launched the continent’s first-ever prison radio station in the Western Cape.

Here is what you need to know about the digital station, Basic Radio 98.7:

Line-up

The radio station will be operated by inmates at the Brandvlei Correctional Centre and aims to give prisoners a voice, while rehabilitating them.

According to Lamola, the idea has been in the pipeline for a long time

'Truth and concerns'

BusinessLIVE reported that the inmates are receiving broadcasting training at a new, state-of-the-art radio studio.

“It’s been a long time coming to give our inmates a platform that is theirs to air their truths and concerns”, said the minister.

Nationwide

Popular radio personality Phat Joe, who was the guest at the launch, has thrown his weight behind the project.

"I’m here with a message. I’m going to take this station nationwide. You guys will be heard coast to coast. I’m talking to your managers and programme directors right now," he said.