CULTURE — February 13, 2026
Over 40 radio stations obtain licences since IEA’s return: Ghafran
The Islamic Emirate's Ministry of Information and Culture said over 40 radio stations have been licensed since its return to power, bringing the total audio media outlets to 228 nationwide.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Pajhwok — 2 min read

KABUL — Marking World Radio Day, the Ministry of Information and Culture announced that more than 40 radio stations have received operating licences since the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan's (IEA) return to power, raising the nationwide total of audio media outlets to 228.
Khabeeb Ghafran, spokesman for the ministry, stated this in an audio message on Thursday, February 13. He highlighted radio's longstanding role in Afghanistan, noting that stations have operated for decades, delivering information, raising public awareness and broadcasting religious, cultural, social and political programmes.
"In our dear country, radio stations have operated for several decades as audio media, playing an effective and strong role," Ghafran said.
He added that the ministry gives special attention to the sector. Ghafran urged all media organisations to operate effectively and responsibly, in line with Afghanistan’s Islamic and cultural values as well as the ministry’s publication policies.
Read the original reporting at Pajhwok →
Reliability assessment
Direct, on-record attribution to named spokesman Khabeeb Ghafran with concrete, checkable details (over 40 licences, total 228 outlets) during a specific event (World Radio Day audio message).
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Pajhwok
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Culture — Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Ministry of Information and Culture, Khabeeb Ghafran, radio stations, World Radio Day
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