Ireland’s Classic Hits is taking part in a major new independent radio initiative which will bring first-hand reports from Somaliland to listeners across Ireland.
The station is joining eight other independent broadcasters to support a week of dedicated coverage focusing on drought, flooding and the growing impact of climate change in the Horn of Africa.
Reporter Lynsey Dolan will travel to Somaliland in early October, with her reports being made available to Ireland’s Classic Hits and the other participating stations: Midlands 103, Midwest Radio, KCLR 96FM, Radio Kerry, Radio Nova, Shannonside Northern Sound, South East Radio and WLR FM.
The initiative will give Classic Hits listeners the opportunity to hear directly from communities experiencing the effects of prolonged drought, while also highlighting the work being done to prepare for potential flooding and changing weather conditions.
Somaliland, in north-eastern Africa, is a semi-arid region which has experienced extended drought in recent years, as well as significant flooding.
During her visit, Lynsey will report on projects aimed at helping communities become more resilient to the changing climate.
This includes the distribution of drought-resistant seeds and agricultural tools, the construction and repair of dams, rainwater harvesting and measures designed to limit the damage caused by flooding.
The reporting trip is being coordinated with humanitarian organisation Concern.
Concern’s Richard Nunn said the organisation is working with communities to help them adapt to the increasing impact of climate change.
“Concern is working with these communities to help them adapt as the impact of climate change continues to intensify. Our work includes climate-smart agriculture, supporting communities to access water, including rainwater harvesting and resilience building. We are currently working with communities to prepare for El Niño and to protect farmland from the devastating floods if and when they arrive.”
He said the visit would also help Irish radio audiences understand the scale of the challenges facing communities in the region.
“We warmly welcome the opportunity which this visit presents to explain to Irish radio listeners the scale of the challenge which climate change poses and the measures that can be taken to help those impacted by it.”
Lynsey Dolan is an experienced broadcaster who works with Newstalk, Today FM and Network News. She has extensive experience covering Irish and international issues and has previously reported from Africa.
Ahead of the trip, she said the coverage would give listeners a valuable insight into the situation on the ground.
“Droughts and flooding are very important issues for those affected in Somaliland and it is great that listeners to the nine stations will be able to hear first-hand details from people on the ground.”
Ireland’s Classic Hits and the eight other participating broadcasters are all members of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland.
The initiative demonstrates the reach of Ireland’s independent radio sector and its role in delivering public service content and international reporting to audiences across the country.
Classic Hits listeners will hear reports from Lynsey during her week in Somaliland in October.
