Radio Still Leads; Others Follow: Media Consumption Patterns of Liberians in the Epicentre

Radio remains the dominant source of news and entertainment in Monrovia and Montserrado County, Liberia, despite the rapid growth of digital media. Based on a survey of over 600 residents, this study examines media consumption patterns, the convergence of traditional and digital platforms, and public perceptions of news credibility. Findings show that 81.3% of respondents identify radio as their primary source of information, confirming its continued centrality in daily life. Mobile phones have significantly reshaped listening habits, with more than three-quarters of respondents accessing radio through their devices. Although social media-especially Facebook-has become an important space for information sharing and political engagement, it is widely regarded as less credible than traditional media. Radio was rated the most trusted (67.1%) and most accurate (68.8%) news source, while social media ranked lowest on both measures. More than 60% of respondents expressed skepticism about the fairness and accuracy of social media content. The persistence of radio is strongly linked to its accessibility, affordability, and deep cultural integration across Liberian society. At the same time, digital convergence has expanded audience engagement by integrating mobile technology with traditional broadcasting. However, the rapid spread of unverified online content poses serious challenges related to misinformation and declining trust. The findings highlight the ongoing strength of radio within Liberia's evolving media environment while underscoring the urgent need for stronger media literacy initiatives. Understanding how traditional and digital platforms interact is essential for protecting public trust and ensuring credible information flows in a transitional media system.