A new Hausa-speaking radio station, Iqra Radio, has been launched in Accra.

The launching of new radio station was graced by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu; National Imam of Ahlusunnah, Sheikh Umar Ibrahim; National Imam of Shia, Sheikh Kamal Deen; and a host of other Imams from various Zongo communities.

Also present were the President and members of the National Council of Zongo Chiefs, as well as Chiefs from various Zongo communities and tribal Chiefs from Accra.

Transmitting on 103.7 FM, Iqra Radio aims to serve Zongo communities in the Greater Accra Region and beyond.

Key programmes of the new radio station include Islamic lectures by various globally acclaimed Hausa-speaking Islamic scholars designed to educate and uplift the people of the Zongos.

There will also be programmes addressing issues pertinent to women and educational shows for children.

Talks are underway to sign partnership agreements with several international media houses broadcasting in Hausa.

The station will also cover news, business, sports, current affairs, and entertainment.

The name of the station, Iqra, which means "read," is derived from the first verse, or first revelation, of the Holy Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad.

Delivering a sermon at the launch, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu expressed delight at the establishment of the station, saying it will significantly contribute to the advancement of knowledge. He emphasized the importance of education and knowledge, urging everyone to take education and the pursuit of knowledge seriously and as a top priority.

Iqra Radio has been test transmitting for nearly three months, delivering melodious recitations of the Holy Qur'an by famous reciters, as well as sermons on various topics of interest.

The station will broadcast primarily in Hausa, but it will also feature special sessions in other dominant Zongo languages, as well as programmes in Arabic and English to cater to the Ghanaian Muslim community and expatriates.

The slogan of the station is "Zaabin al Ummah," a Hausa phrase meaning "the choice of the people."

Meanwhile, Iqra Radio will officially commence on-air programming on Tuesday with the morning show, hosted by Shamun Baako.

He is among several experienced Hausa-speaking broadcasters who have been pencilled in for various programmes on Iqra FM.