Somalia

Internews’ project in Somalia – People to People Radio – has the opportunity to create real impact in a nation emerging from a 20-plus year conflict and in the process of political transition to a new republic.

In partnership with Star FM, a Nairobi-based Somali language radio station with an expanding FM network in Kenya and Somalia, Internews is establishing three community radio stations in Mogadishu, Gurieel and Dhusamareb. The goal of each radio station is to build relationships with the local population to provide trusted independent information and a democratic space for debate and dialogue. Traditionally, Somalis are an oral society and have debated topics from traditions to current affairs everywhere from under an acacia tree to the local coffee shop. Using radio will allow for these topics and discussions to reach a far broader audience of listeners and participants.

The program includes the development of local journalists, technicians and producers to provide international standard broadcast content in each of the three locations. As well as training and mentoring the radio staff, each station will have a Civil Society Organization (CSO) Coordinator who will work with NGOs, CSOs and community based organizations to develop a closer relationship with the radio and to present the efforts implemented by these local organizations.

Internews’ project in Somalia is funded by the United States Agency for International Development.