February 13 marks World Radio Day. 

The first radio station in Kabul began broadcasting 99 years ago, and despite the passage of time, radio remains a significant medium in Afghanistan.

As one of the most important and influential media types in Afghanistan, radio first started in the Koti Londoni area of Kabul but was later halted due to various reasons. After 16 years, radio resumed broadcasting in 1941 in a two-story building next to the former Ministry of Communications.

Faqir Maiwand, a former advisor to the Ministry of Information and Culture, told TOLOnews:
"Whether in times of joy or sorrow, from Koti Londoni to Radio Arman, broadcasts have always continued."

Over the years, radio has remained a reliable source of information in Afghanistan.

Mohammad Akbar Zargar, a well-known radio personality (74 years old), recalls that in earlier times, people—especially taxi drivers—were very fond of listening to the radio, considering it the best source of news and entertainment.

"I remember when someone bought a radio in the past, we would take sweets and visit their house. That person would turn on the radio for 10 or 20 minutes, and we would listen eagerly," he said.

Despite technological advancements, radio continues to hold a special place in the country.

Ajmal Noorzai, an advisor at Radio Arman and Arakozia, told TOLOnews: "People’s interest in radio has grown. Through programs like ‘Safai-e Shahr’ (City Cleanup), we conveyed people's voices to the authorities, creating an effective bridge between citizens and the government."

Noor Zaman, a taxi driver in Kabul, shared his experience: "I have been driving a taxi in Kabul for ten years and always listen to radio programs. They broadcast excellent content."

According to the Ministry of Information and Culture, 234 radio stations are currently active across Afghanistan, of which 33 stations have obtained broadcasting licenses since the return of the Islamic Emirate.

Khubaib Ghufran, spokesperson for the ministry, stated: "Out of this total, 33 radio stations have officially received licenses from the Ministry of Information and Culture under the current government and are now operational."

World Radio Day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2012, designating February 13 as a celebration of this enduring medium.

On this occasion, UNESCO has emphasized radio’s role in connecting communities and amplifying the voices of diverse groups to address shared challenges.