Somali Women Journalists’ Rights Association (SOWJRA), with support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), successfully trained more than 100 young women journalists and content creators in digital media and storytelling to strengthen the participation, leadership, and visibility of Somali women in the media sector.

The initiative was designed to address gender inequality in the media by equipping participants with practical skills in digital storytelling, mobile journalism, and content creation, enabling them to report on underreported issues affecting women and girls across Somalia. Through intensive training, mentorship, and one-on-one coaching, participants enhanced their professional skills and confidence to produce impactful, evidence-based stories that amplify women's voices.

As a result, the trainees produced more than 100 digital stories highlighting critical issues such as gender-based violence (GBV), displacement, women's rights, social inclusion, and the challenges facing women and girls in Somalia. These stories have helped raise public awareness, promote dialogue, and contribute to more gender-responsive media coverage.

Among the outstanding stories produced are:

The Pain of Displacement: A Somali Mother's Story

Produced by Bushra Ali Nadir, this powerful video tells the story of a Somali mother living in an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp in Mogadishu. Through her testimony, the documentary highlights the daily hardships faced by displaced families, including inadequate shelter, limited access to essential services, and heightened risks of gender-based violence.

Women Domestic Workers: Harassment and Workplace Challenges

Produced by Ayaan Adan Ciise, this story sheds light on the experiences of Somali women working as domestic workers, exposing the harassment, exploitation, and workplace challenges they face while advocating for greater protection of their rights.

Somali Society's Changing Perception of Female Journalists

Produced by Xaliima Daa'ud, this inspiring story explores the evolving perceptions of women journalists in Somali society, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that continue to limit women's participation and leadership in the media sector.

Through this initiative, SOWJRA continues to empower the next generation of Somali women journalists to use digital media as a tool for advocacy, accountability, and social change. By amplifying women's voices and promoting quality journalism, the project is contributing to a more inclusive, equitable, and gender-responsive media landscape in Somalia.

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