Fondation Hirondelle created Studio Hirondelle DRC in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2014. The studio aims to contribute to strengthening democracy in the country by encouraging Congolese citizens—especially women and young people—to take part in public life through professional and socially-engaged media.
Its programmes are broadcast in 5 languages (French, Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba and Swahili) by a network of 147 media partners, putting the population first by bringing them reliable, independent information and by providing them with a voice on robust local media. Since January 2024, Studio Hirondelle has placed fact-checking and media education at the centre of its efforts.
Key Figures 2024
124 radios and 23 TV partner stations
28,000 social media followers
48 media professionals trained
1.5 million weekly listeners
35,400 website users
5 broadcast languages
Financial Volume 2024
1,790,195 CHF
Sources of funding
• European Union
• Switzerland (SDC Core Contribution)
• United States (Embassy)
• Communication Partnership Contracts
SUPPORTING THE CULTURE OF DEMOCRACY AND COUNTERING DISINFORMATION IN DRC
Fighting between the Congolese army and the armed group M23 has intensified in the east of the country, forcing hundreds of thousands of people to relocate and fanning the flames of community tensions. In this context, the Congolese media—already suffering from a lack of resources—have become very vulnerable to the threat of manipulation, especially in light of the increasing spread of mis- and disinformation on social media, linked to issues of governance and peace.
In 2024, Studio Hirondelle DRC produced two weekly current affairs shows and one monthly debate, either in the studio or in the field, in 5 languages (French, Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba and Swahili). These programmes address the main national and local issues such as public policy analysis and the civic and political involvement of young people. The station developed new digital formats to be broadcast on social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, as well as on TikTok and Instagram to reach younger audiences. In Kinshasa, Kananga, Goma, Bukavu and Lumbumbashi, media partners received editorial and technical training as well as courses on the challenges of community radio station management. Studio Hirondelle DRC’s editorial team received support in refining its digital strategy, as well as training in fact-checking. In 2024, Studio Hirondelle DRC also received training in analysing disinformation on social media. Still in 2024, a pilot project was launched with the Goma and Bukavu community radio stations that uses AI to detect hate speech.
Thanks to the training I received, I’ve strengthened my responsible journalism skills. Now I’m better able to check news before publishing it, which makes it possible for me to help counter the disinformation that’s dividing our community.
Papy Mbaya, journalist in Tshikapa
In 2025, Studio Hirondelle DRC is equipped with digital tools that are able to monitor fake news and hate speech online. The team is planning to expand its digital presence, especially on TikTok and Instagram. Increasing the use of AI to detect hate speech on community radio is also an important objective. Journalists from Studio Hirondelle DRC and media partners jointly participate in training sessions. Lastly, a partnership with Radio Okapi has made it possible for a weekly rebroadcast of all of Studio Hirondelle DRC content, thereby expanding the audience for our programmes.
