The Somali Women Journalists’ Rights Association (SOWJRA), in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), successfully concluded a transformative two-day Digital Safety Workshop in Jowhar, Hirshabelle State, from June 27–28, 2025. The workshop was held under the Collaborative Safety and Security Framework (CSSF) and brought together 60 participants—including women, girls, youth, and police officers—to build practical digital safety skills and raise awareness about online threats.
The sessions were facilitated by digital security experts Mr. Abdikhayr Mohamed Hussein and Mr. Abdirashid Muse Said, and led by SOWJRA Executive Director Leila Aded Osman, who emphasized the importance of equipping vulnerable groups with the tools to protect themselves in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Over the course of two days, participants learned how to:
- Create strong passwords
- Use two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Identify and report online harassment
- Recognize scams and phishing
- Secure smartphones and social media accounts
- Protect mobile money services
A key feature of the training was the Weheliye App, a Somali-language digital safety application designed to support learning and reporting. Over 86% of participants downloaded and used the app during the training. The most appreciated features included self-learning materials, an SOS/helpline, VPN tools, and legal support guidance.
Participants shared powerful personal stories of cyber harassment and digital crime, making the sessions highly engaging and relatable. In a safe and supportive environment, women and youth reflected on their experiences and committed to being digital safety champions in their communities.
The impact of the workshop was measurable:
- Knowledge of 2FA rose from 6% to 88%
- Confidence in securing social media jumped to 92%
- 89% of participants reported they were likely to change their online behavior
- 96% rated the facilitators as “excellent”
- 99% found the workshop helpful and empowering
Notably, participants created WhatsApp peer learning groups to stay connected, continue sharing tools, and extend digital safety awareness to their communities. Police officers in attendance highlighted the importance of digital security in their fieldwork and called for further training tailored to cybercrime investigations.
SOWJRA is proud to lead this critical initiative and deeply grateful to IOM for funding and logistical support, especially the leadership of Asia Abdi Shiekh, who ensured smooth implementation.
As digital threats grow, so does the need for resilience, awareness, and protection. SOWJRA remains committed to empowering Somali women, girls, and communities with the tools they need to navigate the digital world safely.
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