Dutch Funding Keeps Microphones On
Eye Radio has wrapped up a six-month, $187,957 partnership with the Netherlands, marking a critical milestone for independent journalism in South Sudan and illustrating how strategic diplomacy can keep vital newsrooms on air.
Agreement Details and Timeline
Signed on 30 May by Eye Media chief Stephen Omiri and Dutch Ambassador Paul Tholen, the agreement ran from 1 June to 30 November 2025 under the banner “Boosting Independent Journalism and Promoting Freedom of Speech in South Sudan.”
Bridging a Sudden Funding Gap
Eye Radio had relied on volunteers after a global pause in US assistance left its budget empty in January 2025; the Dutch bridge financing brought salaries back, restored studio production and reassured listeners accustomed to the station’s round-the-clock news service.
Strengthening Civic Engagement
Ambassador Tholen praised the outlet for giving citizens information needed to “form independent opinions and express themselves freely, including through voting,” while Omiri credited the funding with amplifying community debates on peace, health and youth entrepreneurship across Juba and eight regional relay stations.
Technology and Multilingual Reach
Broadcasting 24 hours on 98.6 FM in English, Simple Arabic and seven local languages, Eye Radio uses satellite backhaul and mobile streaming to cover peace talks, sports finals and cultural festivals, reinforcing its reputation as the nation’s most accessible source of verified information.
Sustainability Beyond the Grant
Management is now courting advertising, syndication and training revenues to diversify income; Omiri argues that balanced regulation, donor partnerships and a growing private sector can jointly secure an independent media ecosystem able to withstand political transitions and safeguard freedom of expression.