Tru FM

Tru FM is a regional public radio station based in Bhisho, Eastern Cape, broadcasting on 89.9–104.1 FM. Owned by the SABC, it has operated under the Tru FM name since 2008, following the rebrand of CKI FM. Its licensed format is Adult Contemporary Music. The station targets young people in the Eastern Cape, with programmes in English (60%) and Xhosa (40%).

The weekday line-up mixes music, conversation and local issues. truBreakfast, truExperience, Lunchtime Shandis and truDrive keep the daytime schedule moving, while Incoko gives more space to discussion. The station also has a practical side. Upskill focuses on skills and development, which fits Tru FM’s wider youth brief. The current line-up was refreshed in April 2025, with changes aimed at stronger audience engagement.

The music choice is easy to identify. Tru FM leans into South African urban sounds, with amapiano, house and hip-hop regularly appearing in its Top 30. Recent chart entries include Mihlali The Guy, Focalistic, Uncle Waffles and Sjava. The playlist also gives room to artists connected to the wider Eastern Cape music scene.

The reason to listen is not only the music. Tru FM combines youth entertainment with local news, discussion and development content. SABC describes it as a platform for young people to express themselves and engage with issues around them. The station also uses social media, podcasts and video to keep that interaction going beyond the FM signal.

Tru FM has also invested in new broadcasting talent. Its truTalent competition has brought young presenters and DJs into the station, with winners receiving opportunities to work on air. In 2024, the competition attracted 202,371 votes. That makes the talent project part of the station’s identity, rather than a one-off promotion.

Its smaller FM footprint is the main limitation next to national youth and music stations. Its strength is more specific: Tru FM speaks directly to Eastern Cape youth and gives English and Xhosa equal practical relevance. The result is a regional station with a clear local purpose.

Satellite Audio Channel: 816