The iconic Radio Mambí (WAQI-710 AM), a powerful voice for the Cuban exile community and a cornerstone of Hispanic conservatism in Miami, will cease broadcasting on Friday, December 12th. This marks the end of four decades of uninterrupted programming that has impacted generations of listeners.
Journalist Wilfredo Cancio Isla confirmed the news on Facebook, citing employees and sources close to the management of the parent company, Latino Media Network.
Established in 1985 and known for years as "La Grande," Radio Mambí became a pivotal platform for political discourse, criticism of the Cuban regime, and the expression of exile ideologies.
Under the leadership of legendary figures such as Agustín Tamargo, Armando Pérez Roura, and Marta Flores, the station solidified its role as a cultural and informational outlet for thousands of Cubans in South Florida.
Impending Ownership Changes
The decision to take Radio Mambí off the air comes amid the impending sale of the station—and others within the same group—to new owners, who reportedly requested the cessation of all current operations.
Cancio Isla noted that around twenty employees, including hosts, journalists, technicians, and contracted staff, will lose their jobs.
Unfulfilled Promises of Change
When Latino Media Network acquired both stations in 2022, official announcements promised a significant transformation: a more diverse programming lineup with a “democratic and centrist” focus, reflective of Miami's growing Latino community.
Nonetheless, Radio Mambí maintained its largely Republican editorial stance, supportive of Trump-like narratives, even providing a platform for conspiracy theories regarding the 2020 U.S. elections and the Capitol riot in 2021.
While WQBA underwent a revamp in mid-2024, introducing new voices and formats, these changes failed to reverse declining ratings or attract advertisers. Within a year, its entire staff was let go.
A Trend of Decline
This blow follows the recent closure of another Hispanic radio institution in Miami: WQBA-1140 AM "La Cubanísima," also owned by Latino Media Network, which canceled all live programming in July and dismissed its staff.
The decline in audiences and financial performance has ultimately led to the sale of the stations and the permanent shutdown of Radio Mambí's signal.
For many, Radio Mambí's departure signifies not just the end of a media era but also the closing of a significant chapter in the history of Cuban exile in Miami.
As "La Grande" says goodbye, it leaves behind a legacy of memories, controversies, passionate debates, and a unique place in South Florida's Hispanic radio landscape that will be difficult to fill.
Impact of Radio Mambí's Closure on the Cuban Community
Why is Radio Mambí considered important for the Cuban exile community?
Radio Mambí served as a critical platform for political debate, criticism of the Cuban regime, and expression of the Cuban exile community's ideologies, making it an influential voice in Miami.
What led to the shutdown of Radio Mambí?
The shutdown was prompted by declining audiences and financial struggles, leading to the sale of the station and the decision by new owners to halt operations.
What will happen to the employees of Radio Mambí?
Approximately twenty employees, including hosts, journalists, and technicians, will lose their jobs due to the station's closure.