Two new TV channels start up in Herat

Two new private television channels have launched transmissions in the western province of Herat. One of them, called Saqi, began on January 13 with a four-hour daily broadcast. Saqi director Tariq Nabi said that his station lacked funding and personnel, but voiced hope for gradual progress. Saqi does not have a presenter, and instead its programmes are introduced by text appearing on the screen. Regarding his future plans, Nabi said he would employ students of the journalism, law and sharia faculties at Herat University to work at his station.