Fuente: © UN (United Nations)
http://www.un.org/

UN, Afropop Worldwide join forces to enhance radio broadcasts in peacekeeping areas

/noticias.info/ A popular music radio programme featuring the music of Africa will soon be heard in parts of the continent where the United Nations has deployed its blue helmets thanks to a new pro bono agreement signed today between the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) and the not-for-profit organization Afropop Worldwide.

“We will all benefit from this agreement, as it will allow us to better promote African music in different peacekeeping missions, and make our radio stations more appealing to our listeners,” said Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Marie Guéhenno.

“Music transcends all lines and helps people understand each other. That is one of the many goals that we have as peacekeepers,” he observed.

The United States-based Afropop Worldwide currently produces music shows that are broadcast on more that 100 public radio stations in the US, Africa and Europe and while providing on-line services. Under its partnership with the DPKO, Afropop Worldwide will regularly furnish selected UN radio stations in the field with their acclaimed flagship radio programme, Afropop Worldwide.

“We are thrilled that this agreement allows us to reach listeners in parts of Africa covered only by UN radio stations,” said Sean Barlow, Executive Producer of Afropop Worldwide.

“Our overall goals are to help the world appreciate the fantastic diversity and richness of African culture, and so help to develop the international market for African music and musicians,” he said. “In this, we are delighted to be joining forces with UN peacekeeping in trying to make a positive difference in challenging situations.”

Some 70 per cent of the nearly 100,000 total personnel deployed by the UN across 18 peace operations serve in Africa, according to DPKO. notas_de_prensa_archivo