Radio KFOR marks 20th anniversary of the establishment

Radio programmes began broadcast in 1999, in the post-conflict period in Kosovo, to provide the population with information, in time and impartial, on KFOR and security issues, as well as in Albanian and Serbian, together with music programmes.

KFOR Commander Major General Michele Reese said that Radio KFOR through its programmes has demonstrated concrete examples of multiethnic integration, peace and tolerance during all these years of NATO's continued contribution to regional stability.

“Today is a fantastic anniversary, 20 years of life for our extraordinary radio that started broadcasting in 1999 in Albanian and Serbian to address all communities. Better to say a few months after NATO ended the conflict in Kosovo, since then you people of Radio KFOR have been the voice and spirit of KFOR, a voice sending messages of peace, reconstruction and hope. But, Radio KFOR has also broadcast delightful music and entertainment programmes, which have evolved with public tastes and demands. You have accompanied and continue to accompany the lives of citizens of all communities, you have grown up as a positive part of Kosovo's landscape. Radio KFOR has gained this popularity even because of the team's quality, which is constantly working to build confidence, inform people of KFOR's activities and initiatives, and is interested in including the listener in social life, whether since Radio KFOR was one of the few voices talking about security developments in Kosovo”, he said.

Commander Reese stressed that the campaigns KFOR launched are essential messages reflecting KFOR's basic values.

“has impressed me with the number and quality of KFOR campaigns, which are supported by Radio KFOR. They cultivate interethnic tolerance, boost awareness of threats caused by mines and explosives, support the fight against violence in gender bases, and highlight reconstruction projects conducted in the assistance of the international community and KFOR. These are essential messages reflecting our fundamental values, show our commitment to a better Kosovo. Since 1999, much has changed in Kosovo, even KFOR, but Radio KFOR has preserved its original inspiration to the people and to peace”, Riesi said.

He said Radio KFOR's story is touching, and said he is confident that one day even a film will be made for him. Rise stressed that Radio KFOR's story is a story of success for KFOR and NATO.

Meanwhile, Radio KFOR manager Emina Hyseni said she is proud to be marking the 20th anniversary of Radio KFOR, the radio which its journey started in 1999, as a powerful voice of the KFOR mission.

“Anniversarys are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate, but also to reflect on past jobs and achievements so that we can understand and determine our future direction. Radio KFOR is the instrument that provides the possibility for people to be open-minded. This radio has marked constant growth over the past 20 years. At the same time, it shows KFOR's commitment to supporting with concrete actions the construction goals of a democratic and multiethnic society, where tolerance, co-operation and equality are implemented in practice in everyday life, in all its areas”, she said.

Hyseni promised that they would continue to work hard so that even in the future they will be the powerful voice of the KFOR mission for peace, tolerance and co-existence.

In the footnote to the 20th anniversary of the establishment, the inauguration of the new radio station was made and the presentation of Radio KFOR anthem, sung by two girls from the Albanian community and the Kosovo Serb community.

This 20th anniversary marking ceremony has also been rewarded by listeners of Radio KFOR who had participated in the “Rad Show”, providing messages about peace, tolerance and Radio KFOR, Kosovas Kosovas reports.