Morocco, 2 November 2007.

The IBB transmitting station in Morocco will cease operations in March 2008, and the facility will be returned to the Government of Morocco by the end of next year.

The rising cost of operating the Morocco station prompted this decision. The closing will not reduce the number of hours of radio programming currently broadcast by shortwave: All programs currently broadcast from the Morocco station will continue to be broadcast, either from other IBB facilities or through lease arrangements.

Employees affected by the move will receive appropriate severance compensation within the scope of U.S. Embassy agreements. The outstanding work of these Moroccan station employees on behalf of U.S. international broadcasting is greatly appreciated.


Delano, 31 October 2007

On October 28th, the International Broadcasting Bureau’s Delano, California facility ceased regularly scheduled operations. The Delano facility had been a valued asset in the Agency’s mission to promote the values of democracy for 63 years and its voice will certainly be missed.

The Delano facility originated its first broadcast in November of 1944, as a HF shortwave facility, and the scores of dedicated employees, who served the furtherance of our vital mission throughout its span of service, should be proud of their contribution and dedication to this cause.

Shortwave broadcasting has given way to numerous other advanced technologies, and as the changing advancements in the communications media progress, so does our need, as a broadcast medium, to remain current in the latest media technology so that we can continue to service our intended audience.

However, it is important for us to recognize the service and dedication of the Delano staff, both past and present; for their contribution to the success of our mission over the last six decades and congratulate them for a job well done; their efforts are appreciated by all.