Turning Airwaves into Action - Using Radio Interviews to Drive HIV Advocacy

For many communities, especially those on the margins, radio remains one of the most trusted and accessible sources of information. Advocacy organisations like SANPUD are using this platform not only to raise awareness but also to shift thinking and encourage action. A well-prepared interview can spark dialogue, build trust, and move people closer to essential healthcare.

A strong example is the recent interview with Natalie Jacobs, the Chairperson of the People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) sector in the Western Cape on BushRadio. The focus was on the Closing the Gap campaign, which aims to increase HIV testing and treatment among people who use drugs by equipping communities with the knowledge and confidence to educate their peers.

To ensure the message was clear and meaningful, our Communications Strategist worked closely with the Chairperson to create a tailored discussion guide. It covered key points, suggested personal story prompts, and connected the campaign’s goals to real-life experiences. This gave the Chairperson both structure and room to speak authentically.

We were invited onto a radio programme with a strong community audience and a history of welcoming our input. The host offered a thoughtful space that allowed the Chairperson to speak freely and honestly. “I was a bit nervous, but Lerato calmed me down she is amazing”, Natalies said after the interview.  The conversation addressed the gap between available HIV medication and the challenges people who use drugs face when trying to access it. It also explored the importance of peer-led support and showed how Closing the Gap is driving change from within.

The interview didn't end when the broadcast did. Audio clips were repurposed for social media.  Because we planned, the broadcast became part of a larger advocacy effort.

Here are a few lessons from the process:

 Invest in preparation. A tailored guide helps speakers stay focused and confident.

Share stories. Lived experience has power.

Think beyond the interview. One broadcast can fuel many conversations.

Stay aligned with your bigger goals. Every appearance should strengthen your message.

When it's done with intention, a radio interview is more than airtime. It becomes an entry point to action.