In a Nutshell
Talking Drum Studio (TDS) has emerged as the legacy of Search for Common Ground (Search), a peacebuilding INGO that began operating in Liberia in 1997. Today, as a separate entity, we build on our 20 years of experience to influence people's attitudes and behaviors. The jingles, dramas, soap operas, and participatory theater performances that we produce make complex issues such as gender-based violence, education, health, justice, or land disputes accessible to all.
Our radio programs reach around 4.5 million people, touching nearly every Liberian across the country, while each participatory theater performance attracts crowds between 500 and 1,000 audience members.
Over the past two decades, Talking Drum Studio has become a household name in Liberia. We are known for popularizing pidgin English in the media, positioning us a bridge for critical information to reach millions of people.
Why Talking Drum Studio?
In West Africa, the Talking Drum is known as the musical instrument that “speaks” to unite. Its steady sounds reach everyone and can guide parties in conflict towards reconciliation. In post-war Liberia, these concepts gave birth to our vision and mission:
Our vision is to see a society of justice, peace, and active citizen participation in decisions affecting people’s lives.
Our mission is to ignite shared values in finding solutions to the most critical issues affecting society.