Asmara — In continuation of the endeavors being made by the Ministry of Information to develop media works and expand coverage, the Radio Department on the occasion of the 31st anniversary of Dimtsi Hafash has been fully transformed to digitalized mode of operation on the basis of internal capacity and is ready to provide clear and efficient service.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony yesterday, the director general of the Radio Department, Mr. Gimai Berhe, pointed out that the task is an integral part of the vigorous activities being undertaken in all departments of the Ministry with a view to upgrading news material from production to broadcasting through applying sophisticated technology. He further expressed appreciation to those staff members and parties that made major contribution in the transformation process which was wholly undertaken on the basis of internal resource. Mr. Girmai called on staff members of Dimtsi Hafash to effectively utilize the newly installed advanced equipments at substantial expenditure in serving the truth for the benefit of the people and the nation.

The head of administration and finance in the Ministry, Mr. Russom Fisehaye, who inaugurated the newly set up "Digital Radio Suite", explained that the Information Ministry is making substantial investment towards building a responsible, credible and influential mass media at regional and global level. He also highlighted the fact that the media outlets are the driving force of the ongoing national development endeavors, and as such the general public should make due contribution in developing them.

Mr. Tombosa Asmelash told ERINA that the newly introduced digitalized mode of operation would play vital role in producing effective, clear and streamlined programs, besides enabling reporters to produce and broadcast programs from different parts of the country. It would also enhance the task of producing programs in which the population taking active participation, he added.

The modern work methodology is with a view of broadcasting timely programs, enabling journalist to effectively utilize their time in technological know-how, besides introducing data-base system to archive programs for long time.

In line with the expansion of program coverage and increased airtime, Dimtsi Hafash is presently broadcasting over 270 programs weekly in the country's 9 languages and other ones.