"Community radio remains the most readily available means of access to information for the majority of poor communities in South Africa. In this regard, the purpose served by community radio within communities is elevated to encompass greater significance in the promotion of active citizens and participation at the local level. In a rapidly changing socio-economic and civil-political context, it is therefore vital that the long term sustainability of this medium be ensured. This study explored the operating environment and narrows the scope of issues impacting on social, institutional and financial sustainability of community radio. The influence of government regulation and community participation were identified as the primary concerns for sustainability. Government, through ICASA and the various broadcasting legal and policy instruments, has immediate responsibilities for community media and community radio in particular which include: the allocation and management of radio frequency spectrum; regulation of spectrum and content among others. How these responsibilities are fulfilled can greatly affect the long term sustainability of community radio in South Africa. These concerns require further examination in order to ensure that efforts of government are influenced for apt and suitable regulatory response. On the other end of the spectrum, the role of communities requires further exploration to ensure that it is exercised with positive effect." (Conclusion)