Documentary on Giorgio Lolli, who brought radio to Africa, premieres at Biografilm

Directed by Federico Bacci and Francesco Eppesteingher, the documentary 'Radio Solaire – Radio Diffusion Rurale' will debut on Friday, June 13, at the 21st Biografilm Festival in Bologna. This 75-minute film tells the story of Giorgio Lolli, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 81. A native of Bologna, Lolli was instrumental in establishing over 500 radio stations throughout Africa, notably introducing FM radio to Togo, Mali, Senegal, and Burkina Faso. He initiated 'rural radios' to enhance literacy and communication, launched free training schools for radio technicians, and founded Solaire to provide affordable radio equipment. The film includes archival footage and personal accounts, highlighting Lolli's final station focused on migrant information. Additionally, a discussion titled 'Radio Solaire. Giorgio Lolli e la radiofonia comunitaria d’assalto' is scheduled for Saturday, June 14.