About us

Somali Women Journalists' Rights Association (SOWJRA) is a women-led non-governmental and non-profit organization, founded in 2017 by women journalists in Somalia. SOWJRA was established to represent and defend the rights of women in the media, promote gender balance in the media sector, and advocate for the equal enjoyment of human rights for women and girls. These rights include freedom from violence, access to justice, sexual and reproductive rights, socio-economic equality, and participation in decision-making processes.

SOWJRA is headquartered in Mogadishu, Somalia and covers throughout Somali region.

Our mission

SOWJRA’s mission is to influence the media in Somalia to embrace and promote women’s rights and advance the status of women in the media industry.

our vision

SOWJRA envisions a gender-responsive society that fosters and promotes equitable development and women’s rights.

our core work

Mobilization & Community Building

We empower and unite women journalists in Somalia by establishing strong networks and creating platforms for idea exchange, collaboration, and professional development. Our initiatives aim to enhance their media expertise while fostering a sense of collective strength. Additionally, we advocate for women's rights in the media industry, working to reduce gender disparities and promote greater participation of women at all levels of media leadership and practice.

Capacity Building & Skill Development

We offer comprehensive training and support to help women journalists advance their careers and step into leadership roles within their newsrooms. Our programs empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to produce impactful journalism that highlights gender, health, and development issues, particularly those affecting women and marginalized communities.

Advocacy & Awareness Rising

We advocate for the eradication of all forms of violence against women, girls, and children, including domestic violence, rape, sexual abuse, early marriage, and female genital mutilation (FGM), which remain prevalent across Somalia. Our goal is to ensure the full realization of women’s rights and their equal participation in Somali society.

Peacebuilding & Gender Responsive Society

We advocate for and promote the vital role of media and journalists in fostering a peaceful, gender-equal, and inclusive society in Somalia. We also play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda, while showcasing women as leaders, peacebuilders, and decision-makers in shaping the future of their communities.