Historian Ziاد فهمى, in his study titled "The Early Stage of Egyptian Radio 1928-1934", revealed that Egypt's first commercial radio station was launched in 1923 by Ahmad Saad El-Gawahery. According to a US government report on American trade, Egypt imported 435 radio devices from the US in 1924, 2,796 in 1925, and 2,538 in 1926. By June 1927, Egypt had imported 13,981 American-made radios. These numbers demonstrate a significant increase in radio imports over the years.
The historian noted that commercial advertisements formed the basis of the budget for private radios in Egypt. These advertisements included local institutions such as stores, hotels, and electrical appliances, as well as imported products like toothpaste and razors. Egypt's "Egyptian Newspapers" radio station had signed annual advertising contracts with American car manufacturers, radio companies, and tire and piano companies. As a result, cafes began purchasing radios on installments so that customers would come to them.
The British Empire initially expressed concern over private radios in Egypt due to potential interference with military frequencies. However, by the late 1920s, they were worried that these radios would be used for anti-British propaganda. The Egyptian government received offers from American companies to manage and operate the Egyptian radio, but London supported the British Marconi company.
Ziاد فهمى stated that negotiations to establish the Egyptian state radio station began as early as 1925. The station was eventually opened in 1934, nine years after the initial talks. The Egyptian National Media Authority, led by Ahmed El-Moslemani, adopted the 1926 Radio Law for Egyptian radio. This law highlighted the significance of the official radio station's launch in 1934.
Historian Yunus Labib Ragab had previously stated in his book "Al-Ahram Diwan Al-Hayat Al-Muasira" that there was a consensus among historical and media writings that 1926 marked the birth of radio. However, he believed that the launch of Kastliano radio in 1925 represented the birth of Egyptian radio 101 years ago.
Ziاد فهمى's study provided valuable insights into the early days of Egyptian radio. The launch of the first commercial radio station in 1923 marked the beginning of a new era in Egyptian media. The growth of radio imports and the use of advertisements to fund private radios contributed to the development of the media landscape in Egypt.
The Egyptian radio station's history is a fascinating topic that continues to attract researchers and media enthusiasts. Understanding the early days of radio in Egypt provides valuable context for the current media landscape. As the media continues to evolve, it is essential to appreciate its rich history and the pioneers who contributed to its development.
Key points
- Egypt's first commercial radio station was launched in 1923 by Ahmad Saad El-Gawahery.
- The British Empire initially expressed concern over private radios in Egypt due to potential interference with military frequencies.
- The Egyptian state radio station was eventually opened in 1934, nine years after initial talks began.
