However, while feeling that the stringency of the government response was necessary and appropriate, 75% of respondents were concerned about the impact of the lockdown on the economy, with fears surrounding job losses and retrenchments accounting for 73% of the respondents' concerns.

The survey also highlighted concerns around mental health, with 47% of respondents raising concerns about their own mental wellbeing. This is considering the ongoing social isolation and the escalating virus transmission numbers.

Listeners who participated in the study also indicated that they would like to hear more communication from the South African government during this time.

Across the three provinces, 78% of respondents requested that radio clips be played during the day that provide information about the types of services available to them. This includes health, social or business support through their respective municipalities.

Additionally, over a quarter of respondents say that they tune in specifically for the news bulletins across Primedia Broadcasting's radio stations.

Melissa McNally, research manager at Primedia Broadcasting, says, "By interrogating our research on advertising and content consumption data, we have been able to develop key insights on citizen sentiment and behaviours."

"We hope that these insights will contribute, even in a small way, to informing the national initiative combatting coronavirus transmission in South Africa," adds McNally.

"As we begin to ease lockdown and resume life under a 'new normal', solidarity and trust between citizens and government will need to be at an all-time high. A central component of this will be open and transparent communication between all stakeholders," she concludes. "Radio has been highlighted as a critical channel through which our leaders can reach our people."

These findings were presented at a Primedia Broadcasting webinar last week. Individuals are encouraged to visit www.primediabroadcasting.co.za for past and upcoming webinars.

For more information, visit www.primediabroadcasting.co.za. You can also follow Primedia Broadcasting on Twitter.