STORY: SOMALIA- AMAN RADIO, VOICE OF THE WOMAN
TRT: 03:19
SOURCE: AU/UN IST
RESTRICTIONS: This media asset is free for editorial broadcast, print, online and radio use. It is not to be sold on and is restricted for other purposes. All enquiries to news@auunist.org
CREDIT REQUIRED: NONE
LANGUAGE: SOMALI/ NATS
DATELINE: 23 NOVEMBER 2013/MOGADISHU/ SOMALIA

STORY:

In a nondescript white building along the bustling Makka al Mukarramah Road, a group of women intently focus on their computer screens, playing and replaying sound pieces. Somali music plays softly through the speakers as the presenter fits on her headset and starts the show. Welcome to Aman Radio, the first all-female run radio station in Mogadishu.

Incessant conflict has put Somalia’s women as one of the most disadvantaged in the world. In Mogadishu’s internally displaced camps, rape is rife and domestic violence is rampant in most areas. Despite condemnation of acts of violence against women and efforts to curb their marginalization by aid agencies and civil society, one voice has been conspicuously absent; the voice of the Somali women. This is what Aman Radio seeks to fill.

“I chose journalism because I want to amplify the voices of my society and especially those of Somali women. I want to speak for the disadvantaged and those whose voices never receive attention, “ explains Anisa Abdullahi, an editor at the station. “I chose Aman because its dedicated to social issues. We rarely discuss politics. We focus on the community, women, healthcare, education and the rebuilding of the country. So in some little way, I want to help my society by highlighting their needs and celebrating their accomplishments,” she adds.

It’s not easy being a journalist or running a media outlet in Somalia. The country still ranks as one of the most dangerous for journalists to work in. Last year, up to 19 journalists were killed while dozens have been targeted for their work. This year is far better than last year, but even then there’s other constant worries. Frequent power cuts and transmission problems form the bulk of challenges for the station’s producer, Aliyo Mohamed Osman.

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