The Use of Radio in Promoting Gender Equality in Aboh-Mbaise Lga, Imo State

ABSTRACT This study sought to investigate the role radio play in promoting gender equality in Nigeria, using Aboh-Mbaise LGA of Imo State as a case study. The main objective of the study was to examine the use of radio in promoting gender equality in Aboh-Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State. Specifically the study aimed to assess the current status of gender equality in Aboh-mbaise local government area. As well as examine the role of radio in influencing perceptions of gender roles and stereotypes.To also identify the challenges and opportunities in using radio as a tool for empowering women and promoting inclusivity. And discover strategies for enhancing the impact of radio communication on advancing gender equality in the community.The study is anchored on the Agenda Setting Theory. It made use of the survey research design alongside a questionnaire. The questionnaire would be administered to the sample size of 400 got through the Taro Yamane method. The sampling technique adopted was the purposive or judgemental sampling technique. The findings indicated that men and women do not have equal rights in Aboh-mbaise LGA. Also that women do not have equal access to education and job opportunities in Aboh-mbaise LGA. It also found that radio can be an effective tool for raising awareness of gender equality issues and for promoting positive social change; However, the research also discovers that there are still significant challenges to the effective use of radio for promoting gender equality in the area. These challenges include a lack of funding, limited access to technology, and cultural barriers. The study recommended the following; Radio stations in Aboh-Mbaise Local Government Area should prioritize programming that promotes gender equality and challenges patriarchal norms; The Imo State Government should support and fund radio programming that promotes gender equality and women's empowerment.;Civil society organizations should collaborate with radio stations to develop and implement effective gender equality programming; Radio producers and presenters should receive training on gender-sensitive programming to ensure that programming is inclusive and effective.