A Voice for Kompiam: Connecting Communities Through Radio
Sauan FM is Kompiam’s community radio station, established to bring health education, news, Christian teaching, and local programming to families across the district. Broadcasting from the hospital grounds and relayed through a solar-powered repeater at Winikos, Sauan FM has historically reached much of Kompiam’s central area – including Lapalama, Marambe, and even parts of Baiyer Valley in Western Highlands.
For many years, Sauan FM has been a vital link for communities with limited access to communication, sharing life-saving health messages, school updates, and encouragement across the airwaves.
A Legacy Built Through Partnership & Volunteer Support
Sauan FM has benefited greatly from the dedication of volunteers and supporters. In particular, Mr. Ron Ehrke of Australia – formerly a technical advisor with the ABC – has provided extensive guidance and expertise over many years. Trainers from radio stations in southern PNG have also contributed by teaching broadcasting skills, program production, and technical operations to local staff.
The station has traditionally operated under a station manager and two announcers, running daily music, news, religious programs, educational content, and health awareness segments.
Current Status: Preparing for a New Chapter
At present, Sauan FM is not operational. Ageing equipment, analogue systems, and technical limitations have made broadcasting increasingly difficult. To restore reliable service and expand what the station can offer, Kompiam Hospital is now exploring options to upgrade Sauan FM to digital equipment. A digital upgrade would all:
- clearer and more reliable transmission
- expanded coverage
- easier maintenance
- modern program production
- integration with school-based educational content
- improved health messaging and emergency communication
This upgrade represents an important step toward revitalizing Sauan FM as a powerful tool for community connection and public health.
Future Vision: Education, Health & Community Connection
Once upgraded, Sauan FM aims to strengthen collaboration with Kompiam International School by developing:
- academic programs
- radio dramas
- instructional lessons
- health education series
- community storytelling segments
Radio remains one of the most accessible forms of communication in rural PNG. With improved equipment and renewed support, Sauan FM can once again serve as a lifeline for families in both central Kompiam and remote areas.
Support the Revival of Sauan FM
To bring Sauan FM back on air, we are seeking support for:
- digital broadcasting equipment
- studio upgrades
- training for local staff
- technical installation
- ongoing operational costs
If you would like to help restore this important community service, please visit our Donations page.