Kampala — THE usually quiet Soroti Sports Grounds in Soroti town was yesterday jammed with excitement as Teso region witnessed the launch of Vision Group's Etop Radio.

The colourful ceremony was presided over by the Vision Group chief executive officer, Robert Kabushenga.

An estimated by Police sources put the attendance figures at over 20,000 people. The radio, a subsidiary of Etop newspaper, is the latest of electronic media outlets unveiled by the New Vision Group.

The New Vision establishment, which started as a printing and publishing company, now boasts of five newspapers, four magazines, five radio stations and a television channel.

The New Vision Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Barbara Kaija, said Etop Radio is a community radio that will serve the people irrespective of their political, cultural, racial or religious background.

"As a community radio we are going to reach all people in their localities," she said.

Excited crowds jolted to get vantage positions near the stage where various musicians performed. Over 100 artists entertained the thousands until late at night.

"This crowd is amazing. Not even the President can attract so many people," said John Omoit, one of the people who attended the launch.

"I had to defy my husband's orders to attend," said Jane Adongo, while Simon Elimu remarked that the waiting had been "similar to that of an expectant woman."

Although Etop Radio had been on air since a few weeks ago, programming and news bulletins will start from today on.

Kenneth Oluka, the regional editor, said Etop as a community radio will bring news and information without fear or favour.