Radio>> Indigenous People • Peru
Quishuarani people believe the ancient Inca still live in the oldest quiwuña (polylepis trees) in the community. These trees are taller and thicker and are respected by everyone,” a radio announcer says, describing the beliefs of the highlands community of Peru.
The voice is from a new radio programme Sisichakunaq Pukllaynin—the name means “game of ants” in Peruvian Indian language Quechua. It is broadcast by 12 community radio stations in Cuzco highlands, 3,400 metres above sea level, in Spanish and Quechua. It involves farmers talking about weather events and experts explaining why they occur and how to deal with the situation. Journalists associated with it say local people are increasingly interested in the programme.
Carlos Rivadeneyra, the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters’ representative in Peru, told news agency IPS neither radio nor TV will change the traditional way of life of highlands communities. But it can help them have more information to improve their practices and handle situations better.
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