3.9 The state/public broadcaster offers diverse programming formats for all interests. The Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency (ERTA) broadcasts a variety of programmes for all age groups, offering sports, music, women’s programmes, business news, foreign soap operas and sitcoms as well as special slots for youth and children. Regional television programmes which address the interests of various language groups are transmitted through the national TV network. Some members of the panel felt that programme content mainly reflected the interests of government, being more “focused on image building and moulding the opinion of the public rather than reflecting the opinion of the public,” as one panellist said. There are few discussions and debates on social issues on TV, but more on FM radio stations. ETV is beginning to outsource the production of educational and entertainment programmes to the private sector. The FM radio stations have so far provided a better opportunity for private producers by outsourcing around 50 percent of their air time. “focused on image building and moulding the opinion of the public rather than reflecting the opinion of the public” As a result of major structural changes there have been remarkable improvements on ERTA stations since the middle of 2010 in regard to presentation and packaging as well as coverage of a wider variety of issues. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 3.0 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ETHIOPIA 2010 45