Guantanamo.- In celebration of the 89th anniversary of the provincial radio station CMKS, a dedicated workshop focused on the importance of safeguarding heritage was held, emphasizing the critical role of preservation within this historic broadcast institution.
The discussions highlighted the invaluable nature of protecting diverse archival materials, including documents, photographs, publications, magnetic tapes, sound-related media, awards, decorations, and other symbolic objects.
These materials serve as vital links that connect current and future generations with the rich history, consistent efforts, and enduring legacy of the radio station.
Specialists from the Radio’s Methodological Department underscored that the conservation and management of these assets is an essential collective responsibility.
Although a designated heritage commission oversees the evaluation process, the entire team at CMKS is called upon to engage actively in this mission.
During the workshop, held in the CMKS studio theater, participants reviewed the strategic projections for heritage work planned this year. Key initiatives include specialized training for staff responsible for heritage management within the radio system; integrating heritage preservation into the broader Disaster Reduction Plan for radio stations; and developing software to catalog and facilitate efficient searching of radio heritage by category.
Additionally, plans were proposed to diversify digital heritage repositories and locate audiovisual materials related to prominent radio personalities, which may be held by individuals or other institutions.
The event brought together multiple generations of CMKS personnel, from emerging talents to veteran broadcasters, led by renowned sound producer and musical director Guido Rosgard Beltrán, honored as a Distinguished Artist of Cuban Radio, alongside acclaimed radio veterans Genara Barcelay and Antonio Caballero.
Participants shared experiences and recounted anecdotes reflecting the essence of radio broadcasting from past eras while addressing contemporary challenges—all while maintaining the core mission of captivating loyal listeners.
Preserving Guantánamo’s radio heritage not only safeguards the station’s own history but also encapsulates significant elements of the province’s culture and identity. After 89 years on the airwaves, CMKS’s reach extends beyond local and national borders.
In addition to heritage discussions, the workshop provided an opportunity to acknowledge socioeconomic achievements in the municipality of Maisí—including successes in net sales, export revenues, agricultural productivity, and energy matrix transitions—which contributed to the town hosting the provincial ceremony commemorating the 73rd anniversary of the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes barracks assaults.
Despite ongoing logistical challenges due to irregular shipments arriving at the Santiago de Cuba port and fuel shortages affecting transport to Guantánamo, the commitment to heritage preservation and developmental progress remains steadfast.
As CMKS continues its journey through history and innovation, the dedication of its team ensures that its cultural and historic wealth will be protected for generations to come.
