admin | July 31, 2026
Since 2021, Sirah Sidibé has dedicated her career to using radio as a tool for awareness, education, and positive change in Bamako, Mali. A broadcaster at Radio Oxygène, she brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by local communities, particularly around sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and agricultural issues affecting family farms. Her early passion for radio, encouraged by her mother, inspired her to pursue a career in broadcasting, even after earning a degree in financial management.
Ms. Sidibé was a runner-up for the 2026 George Atkins Communication Award.
Starting as an intern at Radio Oxygène in Yirimadio, Ms. Sidibé quickly progressed to become the lead presenter of flagship programs. Her success reflects her courage, talent, mastery of radio techniques, and expertise in verifying information to inform and inspire her audience. Today, she is a respected figure at her station and among her listeners.
Ms. Sidibé hosts programs such as HERE BLON, focusing on sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence, and produces content for small-scale farmers highlighting issues like market gardening and crop production. She addresses pressing challenges affecting Bamako’s communities, including youth drug use, domestic violence, and sexually transmitted infections, using interactive radio formats that engage communities directly through listening groups, live call-ins, and expert interviews.
Her work has contributed to measurable change, including reduced drug use and gender-based violence, while increasing awareness of prenatal care, menstrual health, and other critical topics. Ms. Sidibé’s programs combine dynamic elements such as street interviews, storytelling, theatre, and co-hosting with male presenters, mixing humor with serious discussion to make content accessible and memorable.
A key part of her success has been leveraging the Uliza platform, provided through the HERE project, allowing listeners to call in for free to share opinions, ask questions, and participate in discussions. Her collaboration with Farm Radio International has also strengthened her skills through specialized training in agricultural programming, gender-sensitive content, and radio management, making her a versatile and influential broadcaster.
Passionate and community-driven, Ms. Sidibé continues to use radio as a bridge between vulnerable populations and decision-makers, inspiring informed action and contributing to meaningful social change in her community.