Sustaining Community Media In The Digital Era: An Eight-Year Case Study Of RFM Radio 99.9, Kenya

The rapid growth of digital and social media platforms has transformed how audiences consume information and participate in public discourse. Community radio stations, particularly in developing countries, face increasing competition from platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and podcasts. While these developments present significant challenges, they also create opportunities for community broadcasters to expand audience engagement and strengthen their social impact.   This paper presents an eight-year case study of RFM Radio 99.9, a community radio station located in Limuru, Kenya. Established in September 2018, the station has operated under significant financial constraints while adapting to changing audience behaviors and digital media trends. The study examines how the station has integrated online streaming, Facebook Live, social media engagement, and podcasting into its operations to maintain relevance and increase audience participation.   The findings demonstrate that digital transformation has enabled RFM Radio to expand its reach beyond traditional broadcasting, strengthen community engagement, and create opportunities for youth participation in media production. The paper also explores the station’s contribution to youth empowerment through media training, mentorship, and digital content creation. Several young broadcasters who began their careers at RFM Radio have progressed into professional media and content creation roles.   The study argues that community radio can remain sustainable in the digital era through strategic adoption of digital technologies, strong community relationships, and meaningful youth participation. The experience of RFM Radio 99.9 provides practical insights for community broadcasters seeking to navigate media transformation in Africa and other developing regions.