January 18th, 2022 marks 20 years since the end of the civil war in Sierra Leone.

With tens of thousands of victims and millions of people displaced, the pain of that conflict is still acutely felt today. As Sierra Leoneans today continue to work together for durable peace and healing, they can count on an important ally — the same that stood by their side at the height of the war: the radio production house Talking Drum Studio.

Created by Search for Common Ground, Talking Drum Studio aired talk shows, dramas, and news programs that inspired people to find shared solutions to the conflict. It provided unbiased information to communities all across the country and gave a voice to everyone — including combatants and rebels.

Today, Talking Drum Studio is still one of the most popular radio production houses in Sierra Leone. This year, it is becoming an independent entity, and will continue providing invaluable information and inspiration to millions of people.

Visit the new Talking Drum Studio website here — and scroll down below to meet the heroes that built it.