BBC MA FINDINGS REVEAL YUMI FM AS PNG’S MOST LISTENED-TO-RADIO-STATION 

With just two weeks remaining before the full report is released, BBC Media Action has revealed early findings from its nationwide media study, showing that Yumi FM (93.1 FM) is the most-listened-to radio station in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

According to the research, over 20% of respondents across the country tune into Yumi FM, with data indicating a total audience share of 37%. As the only Tok Pisin-language commercial station in PNG, Yumi FM is praised by listeners for its accessibility, relatable content, and engaging presentation of local news and music.

The findings are part of a broader national media study led by BBC Media Action, which included a telephone survey of 1,010 adults with mobile phone access—representing around 47% of PNG’s population—as well as 14 focus group discussions held in Port Moresby, Mt Hagen, Lae, and Bougainville.

The research project is designed to support the development of accurate, inclusive, and high-quality public interest media that serves all communities, particularly those currently underserved. It is being carried out in partnership with Tebbutt Research and the PNG National Research Institute, with funding from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and support from the British High Commission in Port Moresby.

One key insight from the survey is that media access in PNG remains largely community-based, especially in rural and remote areas. While television is mostly accessed at home, radio is often listened to in public or shared spaces such as vehicles, buses, and community centres.

The data also shows that 72% of mobile users in PNG have access to radio, either via a standalone radio set or through mobile phone apps. Urban residents on low or middle incomes are the most common radio users.

The top radio stations in PNG, based on the BBC Media Action survey, are as follows:

This early data emphasizes the critical role of radio—particularly Tok Pisin-language content—in informing and engaging Papua New Guinea’s diverse population. The full research report, offering deeper insights into media use and audience needs across the country, will be officially launched in the coming weeks.