Umhlobo Wenene FM is a South African public radio station broadcasting in isiXhosa. It began broadcasting on May 6, 1960, from Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) under the name Radio Xhosa, before being renamed after the fall of apartheid. The station's name means "True Friend" in Xhosa.
As the second-largest radio station in South Africa with around 4 million listeners, Umhlobo Wenene FM provides news, sports, entertainment, and cultural programming 24/7. It broadcasts nationwide and is also available on DStv channel 818.
The station aims to empower and inspire Xhosa-speaking South Africans while preserving their culture in a modern context. Its diverse programming includes music shows, news reports, talk shows on current affairs and lifestyle topics, as well as religious content. Popular programs include the breakfast show "iBrakfesi Eyondlayo Ekuseni" and the religious program "Ngenani Emasangweni Ngendumiso" on Thursdays.
Umhlobo Wenene FM has received several awards and is known for its close relationship with listeners, living up to its name as a "true friend" by being a trusted companion, advisor, and entertainer to the Xhosa-speaking community.