IST Briefing Note 007 Purpose IST Briefing Notes are intended to

Transcription

1
IST Briefing Note 007
Purpose
IST Briefing Notes are intended to provide background information and analysis on Somali affairs
and dynamics. The overall objective is to share situation awareness to inform AMISOM strategy
and operations. The Briefing Notes are compiled by the Research & Analysis department and based
on press articles, interviews and other first and second hand sources.
The objective of this IST Briefing Note issue is to provide an up to date list of Somali media outlets.
The aim of this paper is to help relevant actors understand the landscape of Somali media and use
this information in order to guide their engagement and approach with Somali media outlets.
Based on empirical research this review includes: key findings; a brief presentation of the media
observatory project; followed by a list of all media outlets (Radios, TV, print and news websites)
according to their geographic location in South/Central Somalia, Puntland and Somaliland.
Readers should be informed that the information presented in this report is continuously being
edited and is therefore not a “definitive” version. We acknowledge the difficulties attached to
seeking definitive information as access to all geographical locations belies the ability for in person
verification. The fluidity represented in the contemporary Somali media scene equally is a cause for
difficulty as media outlets “pop up” and “fold” quite quickly due to fluid economic support. This work
should be understood as an attempt which can be regularly revised and updated.
AU/UN IST CONFIDENTIAL
Not to be disseminated without prior IST approval
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Media Mapping Briefing Note
Introduction
This report is a product of the AU/UN Media Observatory project. The AU/UN IST Media Observatory
project includes a website that will be publically accessible online in April/May2013 and will contain
the information included in this report as well as additional relevant information on media and
communication in Somalia1.
It is worth noting that there have been previous reports and mapping exercises published on Somali
media. However, information even from 2012 is already out-dated, as the media landscape in
Somalia is ever changing and growing. The aim of this paper is to provide an up to date source that
can serve as a guidebook of the existing Somali news outlets.
In addition to providing a geographical overview of existing media outlets, this report also offers a
broad understanding of who controls the media outlets and at times an indication of their perceived
political leaning (notably whether they are likely to support central/regional administrations or if
they belong to competing or opposition groups). Many media outlets in Somalia have some sort of
bias or allegiances, whether they are aligned with different movements or organisations or whether
they tend to cover political affairs from either a regional or national perspective. These operational
insights are intended to improve the practitioners’ ability to understand and interact with these
outlets.
Classification and Presentation of Information
This first-hand research provides the most up to date information (as of March 2013) on the Somali
media outlets: radio and television stations, print media as well as online media outlets.
The information presented in this research has been listed per type of media outlets (radio, TV, print,
internet) and inside each type of media outlets the information has been classified by geographic
location per AMISOM sectors (under the general heading of South/Central), Puntland and
Somaliland.2
i. Background on AMISOM Sectors in South/Central Somalia
 Sector I – Benadir (Mogadishu), Lower Shabelle and most of Middle Shabelle regions;
 Sector II – Lower Jubba (Kismaayo, Afmadow), Middle Jubba (Jilib, Bu’aale) and lower Gedo;
 Sector III – Gedo (Baardheere, Garbahaarrey), Bay (Baidoa) and Bakool (Xuduur) regions.
 Sector IV – Hiiran (Beletweyne, Bulo Hurto) region.
Conversely, the Annex 1 classifies the outlets per geographical breakdown first, and then by type of
outlet inside each main geographical zone. This allows the reader to gain a snap shot of how best to
engage in public information campaigns for specific regions. Critical contact information for each
outlet is presented in this Annex 1.
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For practical purposes, in this report, the term “Somalia” will encompass South and Central Somalia, Puntland and
Somaliland.
2
The study also creates two specific regional categories for the outlets located in i. Central Somalia (part in Galguduud and
Mudug regions, between north of Sector 4 and South of Puntland) ii. The Disputed area between Somaliland and Puntland.
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Table of Contents
Introduction
i. Background on AMISOM Sectors in South/Central Somalia
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2
Key Findings
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1. Radio Stations
ii. Background on the different type of broadcasting
1.1 Radio stations with their headquarters based outside Somalia
1.2 Radio stations based in South/Central Somalia
Sector I
Sector II
Sector III
Sector IV
Central Somalia
1.3 Radio stations based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
Somaliland
Disputed Area (Eastern Sanaag)
1.4 Radio stations affiliated with Al Shabaab
1.5 AU/UN IST Media Access Polling results December 2012
10
11
12
16
16
23
24
25
26
27
27
31
31
32
33
2. Television
2.1 TV stations with their headquarters located outside Somalia
2.2 TV stations based in South/Central Somalia
2.3 TV stations based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
Somaliland
40
41
42
43
43
44
3. Newspapers
3.1 Newspapers based in South/Central Somalia
3.2 Newspapers based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
Somaliland
45
46
47
47
48
4. Websites
4.1 List of main Somali online media outlets
4.2 Websites with a particular focus on Puntland
4.3 Websites with a particular focus on Somaliland
4.4 Websites with a particular focus on disputed area (Khatumo)
4.5 Al Shabaab websites
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51
56
57
59
60
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Tables
Table 1 : Number of Media Outlets in Somalia – per HQs location
Table 2: Number of Media Outlets in Somalia – per coverage
Table 3: Number of radio stations in Somalia – per HQs location
Table 4: Number of radio stations in Somalia – per coverage
Table 5: Number of TV stations in Somalia – per HQs location
Table 6: Number of TV Stations in Somalia– per HQs location
Table 7: Number of print outlets in Somalia – per HQs location
Table 8: Number of print outlets in Somalia–per coverage
p.
8
9
11
12
40
40
45
45
KEY FINDINGS3
Total number4 of outlets Headquarters (HQs) - per sectors:





In the whole of Somalia: 90
In South/Central Somalia: 45 (32 in Sector 1 / 1 in Sector 2 / 2 in Sector 3 / 5 in Sector 4 / 5 in
Galguduud-Mudug)
In Puntland: 15
In Somaliland: 18 (+ 2 in Eastern Sanaag)
Outlets located outside Somalia: 10
Total number of outlets HQs - per type:

56 RADIO STATIONS in total:
o In South/Central: 38 (25 in Sector 1 / 1 in Sector 2 / 2 in Sector 3 / 5 in Sector 4 / 5 in
Galguduud-Mudug)
o In Puntland: 10
o In Somaliland: 1 (+ 2 in Eastern Sanaag)
o Radio stations located outside Somalia: 5

14 TV STATIONS in total:
o In South/Central: 2 (all in Sector 1)
o In Puntland: 3
o In Somaliland: 4
o TV stations located outside Somalia: 5

20 PRINT MEDIA in total:
o In South/Central: 5 (all in Sector 1)
o In Puntland: 2
o In Somaliland: 13
3
As of research period March 2013.
This amount does not take into account the number of Al-Shabaab radios; there are 7 radios run by Al-Shabaab across
Somalia which are counted separately.
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5
Regional discrepancies





Above average representation of outlets in Sector 1.
Below average representation of outlets in Sector 2 (especially), Sector 3 and Sector 4.
There are a much greater number of radio stations in Somalia than any other media.
Somaliland is an exception to this with only one radio station (state-owned) and an important of
newspapers. The number of newspapers especially is decreasing.
The most popular Radio and TV stations have their HQs located outside Somalia.
Al Shabaab media Outlets
 Radio: Al Shabaab currently has 7 radio stations located in different AMISOM sectors;
Sector 1:
Radio Andalus in Baraawe (Lower Shabelle region)
Radio Al Furqaan in Baraawe (Lower Shabelle region)
Sector 2:
Radio Andalus in Jilib (Middle Jubba region)
Radio Andalus in Jamaame (Lower Jubba region)
Sector 3:
Radio Andalus in Baardheere (Gedo region)
Sector 4:
Radio Andalus in Buuloburde (Hiiraan Region)
Radio Andalus in Ceelbuur (Hiiraan Region)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Online outlets: the following websites relay Al Shabaab propaganda;
www.amiirnuur.com
www.al-qimmah.net
www.calamada.com (official webpage for radio Andalus)
www.radioalfurqaan.com
www.somalimemo.net
www.somalimidnimo.com
Radio stations coverage
The following stations have multiple reach inside Somalia (multiple stations/FM transmitters across
the country), some for just one hour a day and others 24/7:
1. Radio Andalus (Al Shabaab): FM coverage in Baraawe (Lower Shabelle), Jilib (Middle Jubba),
Jamame (Lower Jubba), Baardheere (Gedo), Buuloburde and Ceelbuur (Hiiraan)
2. Radio Al hikma: FM coverage in Bosasso, Garowe, Galkacyo, Qardho, Burtinle and Galdogob
3. Radio Bar-Kulan: national coverage via regional satellite service (Thaicom 5); FM transmitters
in Mogadishu, Kismayo and Baidoa; relay via the local One Nation radio in Bosasso (12h of
RBK programming); live webstreaming.
4. BBC Somali Service: national coverage via shortwave; FM transmitters in Mogadishu,
Bosasso, Hargeisa/Boromo and Burao; relay via local radios in Mogadishu, Jowhar,
Dhuusamareeb (non-official), southern and northern Galkacyo, Garowe (non-official),
Qardho and Bosasso.
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5. Radio Daljir: FM stations in Bosasso, Qardho, Garowe, Galkacyo, and Cabudwaq/Xeraale,
Buuhodle.
6. Radio Ergo: national coverage via shortwave (only one hour per day); relay via local radios in
Mogadishu, Guriceel, Cabudwaaq, Caadado and southern Galkacyo.
7. Radio Hage: national coverage via shortwave; FM transmitter in Galkacyo
8. Radio Jubba: Mogadishu, Middle and Lower Shabelle and Baidoa
9. One Nation Radio: FM transmitters in Bosasso and Garowe
10. Radio Muqdisho5: FM coverage in Mogadishu, Baidoa, Kismayo (Radio Kismayo) and
Beledweyne (Radio Beledweyne).
11. Somali Broadcast Corporation (SBC): FM transmitters in Bosasso, Garowe and Qardho
12. Radio Star FM: FM coverage in Mogadishu,
Guriceel,Dholow,Elwak,Dhobley,Abudwaaq,Bosaso,Guriceel,Galkacyo,Jowhar,Afmadow,Mar
a,Beledweyne,Dhusamareeb,Galkacyo.
13. VOA Somali Service: national coverage via shortwave; FM transmitter in Hargeisa; relay via
local radios in Mogadishu, Baidoa, Guriceel, Dhuusamareeb (non-official), Cabudwaq,
Garowe, Qardho and Bosasso.
14. Radio Qaran: FM Transmitters in Mogadishu, Lower and Middle Shabelle
The following stations have a regional coverage (East Africa) and/or an international coverage:
Via FM transmission
1. Star FM (FM transmitter in Nairobi and relay stations in Garissa, Dadaab, Wajir, Madogo in
the Tana River valley and Mandera in the far northeast of Kenya)
2. Radio Qaran (FM transmitter in Mogadishu covering Lower & and Middle Shabelle).
Via satellite (and web stream)
1. Radio Bar-Kulan
Via shortwave (and web stream)
1.
2.
3.
4.
BBC Somali Service
Radio Ergo
Radio Hargeisa
VOA Somali Service:
Via web streaming only – non-exhaustive list
2. Radio Bar-Kulan
3. BBC Somali Service
4. Radio Dalsan
5. Radio Ergo
6. Radio Kulmiye
7. Radio Risaala
8. Radio Shabelle
9. Raxanreeb
10. VOA Somali Service
5
Radio Muqdisho (also known as Radio Mogadishu) is the Somali spelling of Somalia’s State-radio.
7
Radio listenership and trustworthiness (Per AU/UN IST polling results December 2012)
 BBC and VOA Somali Services are the most listened to, followed by Radio Muqdisho, Radio
Bar-Kulan, Radio Shabelle and Radio Kulmiye.
 International stations (BBC and VOA Somali Services) and Radio Mogadishu were considered
the most trustworthy radio stations
TV coverage
The following stations have an international reach (via satellite and/or web streaming):
1. TV Royal
2. Somali Channel
3. Somsat TV
4. Universal TV
5. Somali National TV (SNTV)
6. Horn Cable TV
7. Somaliland National Television (SLNTV)
8. Star TV
The following stations have a local reach only (terrestrial):
1. Shabelle TV
2. Bosasso TV
3. Bulsho TV
4. Eastern Television Network (ETN TV)
5. Somali Broadcasting Corporation (SBC)
6. Bulsho TV
7. Somaliland space Channel
TV audience
 There are two public (state-controlled) national TV: Somali National TV (South/Central) and
Somaliland National TV (Somaliland).
 The private TV stations widely regarded as the most popular are Universal TV, Horn Cable TV,
Somali Channel, Somsat TV and Royal TV.
Print outlets
 The newspaper industry has suffered in the recent years with many printing organisations
shutting down in South/Central Somalia and Puntland.
 Somaliland is the only region with a dozen of printing outlets still operational with small
circulation titles. The most popular ones – Haatuf, Jamhuuriya and Geeska Afrika – are daily.
Others publish two or three times per week or even weekly.
 There are five newspapers remaining in Mogadishu and two in Puntland.
Other key remarks/trends
Results from the AU/UN IST November 2012 polling survey in AMISOM 4 sectors:
 The number and overall quality of Somali TV channels is quickly growing and access is not
only confined to Mogadishu; 47 % of those interviewed in Baidoa and Beletweyne towns
have access to TV.
 Newspaper circulation is exclusively in Mogadishu and not widely popular.
 Mobile Phones are the most widely used ICT in South/Central Somalia. Nearly two-thirds of
respondents reported access to a mobile phone (with a smaller percentage of women than
men).
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
The use of radio on mobile has increased dramatically with 56% of the respondents listening
to radio on mobile, with an increasing number of radios acquiring live streaming capability.
Online outlets are also increasingly visited including through the use of mobile phones.

Table 1: Number of Media Outlets in Somalia – per HQs location6
LOCATION (HQs)
MEDIUM
REGIONAL/
INTERNATIONAL
SECTOR 1
SECTOR 2
SECTOR 3
SECTOR 4
CENTRAL
SOMALIA
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
SOMALILAND
7
TOTAL
NUMBER
(Total)
Radios
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
NUMBER
(per outlet
type)
5
5
0
25
Televisions
2
32
Newspapers
5
Radios
1
Televisions
0
Newspapers
0
Radios
2
Televisions
Newspapers
0
0
Radios
5
Televisions
0
Newspapers
Radios
0
5
Televisions
Newspapers
0
0
Radios
10
Televisions
3
Newspapers
Radios
2
2
Televisions
0
Newspapers
0
Radios
1
Televisions
4
Newspapers
13
Radios
56
Televisions
14
Newspapers
20
10
1
2
5
5
15
2
18
90
6
See “Somalia Media Distribution” map – Annex 2.
This amount does not take into account the number of Al-Shabaab radios; there are 7 radios run by Al-Shabaab across
Somalia which are counted separately.
7
9
Table 2: Number of Media Outlets in Somalia – per coverage8
COVERAGE
REGIONAL/
INTERNATIONAL
Radios
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
NUMBER OF
COVERAGE
POINTS
12
4
0
28
SECTOR 1
Televisions
7
Newspapers
5
Radios
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
5
0
0
6
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
Televisions
0
0
8
0
Newspapers
Radios
0
8
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
Televisions
Newspapers
Radios
Televisions
0
0
19
5
6
3
0
Newspapers
0
Radios
Televisions
5
5
Newspapers
13
Radios
94
Televisions
Newspapers
21
24
SECTOR 2
SECTOR 3
SECTOR 4
CENTRAL SOMALIA
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
SOMALILAND
9
TOTAL
MEDIUM
NUMBER
(Total)
40
16
5
6
8
8
30
3
23
139
The classification per HQs location maps out the reality of the media industry in Somalia (e.g how
many outlets are operating in Somalia overall, with which structure, location of their HQs etc) –
8
See Annex 1: the radio stations are counted in every Somali region where they have a transmitter or a broadcasting
capability; the TV Stations are counted in every Somali region where they have a presence (office/studio); the newspapers
are counted in every Somali region where they have a presence (office/studio); the newspaper are counted in every Somali
region where they are distributed.
9
This amount does take into account the number of Al-Shabaab radios; there are 7 radios run by Al-Shabaab across
Somalia.
10
whereas the classification per coverage rather intents to reflect the “media offer” per each Somali
region i.e identifying the various media outlets that are available in every city/region, amongst which
media consumers can choose from. The latter approach (per coverage) is thought for practitioners
who are interested in the “coverage”, the “reach”, in other words knowing which media outlets are
able to reach a specific city or region – whereas the former approach (per HQs location) is more
useful for those who want to envisage the structure of the media industry, and to physically contact
the media “hubs”.
1. Radio stations
Radio has a longstanding importance in Somalia because of the strength of oral traditions, high
illiteracy rates and its relative inexpensiveness. Radio receivers are small, cheap and can be handled
by the nomadic population and urban dwellers. It is also the most effective conduit for
communicating news and information to the entire population, those living in both urban and rural
areas.
Background
Radio broadcasting in Somalia was started by the British colonial administration in 1945 and it was
relatively editorially free. After gaining independence in 1960, and a short experience with civilian
government (1960–1969), the Somali media landscape was primarily shaped by the
revolutionary/military government of Siad Barre. Under the Siad Barre regime, the media was
almost entirely government controlled. While the regime did not allow for freedom of expression
and the existence of private and independent media, some stations emerged that broadcasted from
across the border in Ethiopia or, later, from the rebel held areas of Somaliland. During this period,
Radio Mogadishu became the primary Somali radio station legally broadcasting in the country and
some have credited it with having an important role in the process of state building and the fostering
of a national identity. Under Siad Barre, it remained one of the tools used to spread and promote the
government’s official ideology and agenda.10
A second phase of the media’s historical trajectory in Somalia began with the collapse of the Siad
Barre regime in 1991 and the beginning of the civil war. The rise and proliferation of radio stations
in North-Eastern and South Central Somalia has been a defining feature of Somalia’s political and
social landscape since the early 1990s. Radio has exacerbated and provoked violence and at times
promoted peace and valuable information on security-related issues. This growth can be attributed
to the lack of government regulation, the ubiquitous availability of cheap radios and the usefulness
of radio in serving the interests of warlords, aspiring politicians or businessmen. Over the past
decade, many radio stations have sprung up; some have survived for years, others only months. They
have often been started with the financial assistance and expertise of Somalis from the diaspora.
After the international community pulled away from Somalia in the mid-1990s, small stations run by
warlords proliferated. Many had weak signals and primarily reflected the interests of limited
communities or neighbourhoods, with their influence and role shifting as the conflict evolved. While
some smaller ‘civil society’ or community radio stations existed during this period, these were the
exception. Warlord radios continued to proliferate until power consolidated in the mid-2000s with
the Islamic Courts. A new phase within the radio sector was instigated by the emergence of more
commercial and professionally run stations. With strong financial backing and expertise from the
10
Media, Power, and Politics : The Structure of Radio Broadcasters in Somalia. March 2012 (publication pending), Oxford
University in partnership with AU /UN IST.
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diaspora, as well as an agenda to provide consumer-oriented news and entertainment, stations
consolidated their leading position in Somalia’s radio market and started to transform the media
environment. With the growing influence of Al-Shabaab, which eventually seized power in 2008, the
period of commercial growth and increasingly institutionalized radio stations came to a close.
After the Al Shabaab lost power in Mogadishu in 2012, radio stations started to flourish again.
The range of radio stations span the spectrum with small FM stations established and operated by
private individuals or small commercial operations and larger stations supported by the government
such as Radio Muqdisho or international organizations such as BBC and VOA Somali Services.
International broadcasters, such as BBC and VOA, produce the programme content thousands of
miles away with input from the country and diaspora, sometimes using live links. The programme for
broadcast is relayed to the local or regional transmitters via satellite and more recently some using IP
connections.
ii. Background on the different type of radio broadcasting
Almost all radio services in Somalia transmit on the FM band, which is the most effective and of lowest
cost. The FM transmitters provide a “line of sight” local signal which depending on the power and
elevation of the transmitter can provide a broadcast range of either just a few Km to approximately 150
Km. The FM signal follows line of site and lower power transmissions will be affected by buildings and
land elevation. The cost of FM receivers is very low and they can also be found built in to other
appliances, such as mobile telephones, and use less power than other types or radio wave receivers.
Shortwave transmission is a common method of broadcasting, covering much greater distances than FM
and allowing transmission from outside the country. However, the transmitters are more complex than
FM, have high power consumption and produce an inferior signal. Shortwave receivers are more
expensive and power-consuming than FM. Consequently, as FM transmission has increased, there are
now few shortwave services in Somalia.
More recently website streaming has become a common service provided by radio stations. This service
makes the station output available within Somalia for the listener that can access the internet. Most
significantly, website streaming is an effective way of making the radio station available to diaspora
communities anywhere in the world.
There are some regional satellite services delivering Somali language programmes directly to domestic
or community operated satellite receivers. The satellite signal can cover large regions of the world and
most Somali language services cluster on just one or two systems, thus maximising potential audience.
Table 3: Number of radio stations in Somalia – per HQs location
LOCATION
(Radio HQs)
REGIONAL/
INTERNATIONAL
SECTOR 1
NUMBER
5
25
SECTOR 2
SECTOR 3
1
2
SECTOR 4
5
12
CENTRAL SOMALIA
5
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
10
2
SOMALILAND
TOTAL
1
56
Table 4: Number of radio stations in Somalia – per coverage (see Annex 1)
COVERAGE
REGIONAL/
INTERNATIONAL
SECTOR 1
NUMBER OF TRANSMITTERS/
BROADCASTING SOURCES
12
28
SECTOR 2
SECTOR 3
5
6
SECTOR 4
CENTRAL SOMALIA
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
SOMALILAND
TOTAL
8
8
19
3
5
94
1.1 Radio stations with their headquarters based outside Somalia
1. Radio Bar-Kulan 92.0FM (Mogadishu, Baidoa, Kismayo) / 89.5FM (Bosasso – via One Nation
Radio) / Thaicom 5 Satellite (24/7) www.bar-kulan.com
Radio Bar-Kulan was founded in March 2010. The station has its headquarters in Nairobi and a
second office in Mogadishu. However the station is planning to move its HQs from Nairobi to
Mogadishu by mid-2013. The station has been broadcasting under UN funding for two and a half
years and has recently embarked on the post UN phase that will sustain its operations. Radio BarKulan is supported by various organisations in UK, Germany, Norway and Korea. It has installed a
1KW transmitter that will broadcast regular RBK programming for the population of Kismayo and
surrounding areas. Radio Bar-Kulan also has its own transmitter in Baidoa and is able to relay
some of its programmes in Puntland (Bosasso) via the One Nation Radio which broadcasts Radio
Bar-Kulan programs for 12 hours a day.
Radio Bar-Kulan broadcasts news, information, sport, music and development programmes. It
broadcasts 24/7 in Mogadishu area. In Bosasso, it broadcasts from 6am to 11pm. In Baidoa the
station can be heard at 9:00-12:30, 15:30-20:00 and 23:00-06:00. It also broadcasts 24/7 via live
web streaming as well as via satellite (Thaicom 5) on Frequency 3640. The station has 31
employees (5 in Mogadishu). Radio Bar-Kulan has 18 correspondents throughout Somalia.
The AU/UN IST survey conducted in November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors found that after
eight months on air Radio Bar-Kulan was the fourth most popular radio station in South/Central
Somalia (“ever listened to”) and the sixth most frequently listened to. 43% of respondents said
they listened to the station least once a day. Radio Bar-Kulan stated aim is to be nonpartisan and
13
to promote peace and reconciliation. Initially regarded as a mouthpiece of the United Nations
and AMISOM, the station has gradually gained respect for the quality and range of programmes
that it broadcasts. The current station Director is Mohamed Farah.
A Press statement from Puntland’s Ministry of Information said Bar-Kulan, Ergo and Hirad radios
can resume broadcasting to the area after a six months ban. The radio’s currently have no
studio’s in Puntland, therefore broadcast their programs through local FMs in the area. The
administration urged the owners of the local FMs to register the radio stations that they have
relationship with. Radio Bar-Kulan’s programs had been aired by Puntland-based radio dubbed
‘One nation’
2. BBC Somali Service www.bbc.co.uk
Shortwave: 13 MHz 19MHz 49MHz
Transmitters: 91.0FM (Mogadishu) 96.9FM (Galkacyo) 88.2FM (Bosasso) 89.0FM (Hargeisa,
Boromo) 88.8FM (Burao)11
Relay via local radios: 101.5 FM (relay via Radio Shabelle in Mogadishu) 102.2 FM (non-official
relay via Radio Risaala in Mogadishu) 97.0 FM (relay via Star FM in Mogadishu) 89.5 FM (relay via
Radio Jowhar) 96.9 FM (relay via Codka Mudug in southern Galkacyo) 88.9FM (relay via Codka
Nabadda/Voice of Peace in North Galkacyo) 89.8 FM (non-official relay via Radio Garowe in
Garowe) 89.9 FM, 88.7 FM and 88.5 FM (relay via SBC Radio in Bosasso, Qardho and Garowe
respectively) 88.8 FM (non-official relay via Radio Dhuusamareeb in Dhuusamareeb) .
The BBC Somali Service FM station was founded in 1957. Along with the VOA Somali Service, BBC
Somali Service is the most popular and trusted radio station in Somalia. The AU/UN IST survey
conducted in November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors found that of the sixteen radio stations
pre-coded in the survey, BBC Somali Service was the most popular radio station in South/Central
Somalia (“ever listened to”) and the most frequently listened to. 70% of respondents said they
listened to the station least once a day.
In Somalia, the BBC broadcasts all BBC programs – Somali, English and Arabic – 24 hours a day.
BBC Somali Service broadcasts for a total of three and a half hours per day at the following local
times: 07.00-07.30; 14.00-14.30; 17.00-18.00; 21.00-21.30. It broadcasts international and local
news, current affairs, phone-in programmes and programmes about business, sport and culture.
The rest of the day it broadcasts BBC English and BBC Arabic programmes.
It broadcasts to Somali speakers throughout East Africa on shortwave and on FM via its own
transmitters (in Mogadishu, Bosasso, Hargeisa, Boromo, Burao, Galckacyo) and via relay
partnerships with local radio stations in Somalia.
The BBC used to broadcast to Mogadishu on 91.1 and 91.9 FM until its local transmitter was shut
down by Al Shabaab in April 2010. It now broadcasts on 91.0FM. BBC Somali Service programmes
are also relayed in the capital by the popular independent station Radio Shabelle on 101.5 FM,
Radio Risaala on 102.2 FM and the Kenyan radio station Star FM on 97.0 FM. Other relay partners
of the BBC Somali Service include (to name a few); Radio Jowhar in Jowhar / Radio
Dhuusamareeb in Dhuusamareeb (Central Somalia) / Codka Mudug in southern Galkacyo / Voice
11
The BBC Somali Service does not have its own transmitter in Boromo and Burao. It rents transmitters from some of the
Telecommunication companies in both cities.
14
of Peace, Radio Garowe and SBC in Puntland. Finally, the BBC Somali Service internet live
broadcasts are widely listened to by the Somali diaspora in other parts of the world.12
BBC Somali Service has two foreign correspondents inside Somalia. The current Editor of Somali
BBC Service is Andres Elvis. He has replaced Yusuf Garaad Omar who quit the BBC to run for
Presidency last August 2012.
3. Radio Ergo – shortwave 13,885 KHz www.radioergo.org/so/
Radio Ergo was formerly known as IRIN radio until a Danish media development organisation –
International Media Support (IMS) – took ownership from the United Nation Integrated Regional
Information Network (IRIN) in July 2011 and renamed the station Radio Ergo. The station solely
broadcast news and humanitarian programmes. The station is located in Nairobi and broadcasts
to Somalia one hour per day between 11:30 and 12:30 via shortwave. The stations programmes
are also relayed by local Somali radio stations such as Radio Kulmiye, Radio Xurmo, Star FM,
Radio Dalsan, Radio Kulmiye, Radio Mustaqbal, Radio Iftin, Radio Kasmo and Radio Daljir in
Mogadishu; Radio Galgadud and radio Guriceel in Guriceel; Radio Abudwaq/Codka Galgaduud,
Radio Codka Gobolada Dhexe and Radio Codka Mudug in Central Somalia. Radio Ergo also
broadcasts over the internet via its website.
On 21 February 2013 Radio Ergo was the target of an action taken by the Puntland Ministry of
Information in seeking to prevent Puntland radio stations from broadcasting programming
produced by Radio Ergo, Bar Kulan, and Radio Hirad. In response to this decree, 13 Somali radios
stations (among which Puntland-based Codka Nabadda and Radio Daljir) produced an open letter
on 18 March 2013 rejecting the decision of the Puntland authorities and affirming that they
would continue airing Radio Ergo.13 A Press statement from Puntland’s Ministry of Information
in October 2013 said Bar-Kulan, Ergo and Hirad radios can resume broadcasting to the area after
a six months ban. The radio’s currently have no studios in Puntland, therefore broadcast their
programs through local FMs in the area. The administration urged the owners of the local FMs to
register the radio stations that they have relationship with.
4. Star FM Mogadishu 105.9FM, Guriceel 89.5FM, Bulla Hawa/Dolow 92.5FM, Elwak 89.9FM,
Dhobley 89.5FM, Afmadow 89.5FM, Kismayo 89.5FM (from Oct 20th), Jowhar 97.0FM, Marka
97.0FM, Beledweyne 88.5FM, Dhusamareeb 89.5Fm, Galkacyo 88.5FM, Abudwaaq 89.5 FM,
Bosasso 88.5FM www.starfm.co.ke
Star FM is the leading Somali-language radio station in Kenya. It was founded in October 2010
and is privately owned by North-Eastern Media and Telecommunications Ltd, which is based in
Garissa. The station’s headquarters are based in Nairobi, but it has relay stations in Garissa,
Dadaab, Wajir, Madogo in the Tana River valley and Mandera in the far northeast of Kenya.
12
Also to be noted, the BBC World Service Trust has a project that provides support to six radios including Radio Hargeisa,
Radio SBC-Puntland, Radio Galkacyo, Radio Dhusamareb, Radio Xurmo, Radio Shabelle. The two-year programme, entitled
‘Strengthening Radio Stations in Somalia to promote Human Rights, Peace and Governance’ aims ‘to enhance the reach,
levels of audience participation and professional capacity of Somali media, through capacity-building of radio stations and
media-related training for civil society organizations, in particular women’s and youth associations’. (Oxford PCMLP, 2013)
13
In this letter, the members of “Network 2013” affirm that they ‘have rejected what they view as an attempt to interfere
with their editorial independence, and have stated that they will continue to air the Radio Ergo programming as part of
their normal schedules.’ Network 2013 members include Radio Daljir; Codka Nabadda; Codka Mudug; Radio Guriceel;
Codka Gobollada Dhexe; Radio Kulmiye; Radio Xormo; Radio Mustaqbal; Radio Dalsan; Radio Iftin; Gool FM; Star FM; Radio
Kasmo. Email: [email protected]
15
In Somalia, Star FM also has an FM station in Mogadishu (established in July 2012), located in
Waberi district, which broadcasts on 105.9 FM (formerly 97.0 FM). It also has transmitters in
Guriceel (89.5FM), Bulla Hawa/Dolow (92.5FM), El wak (89.5FM), Dhobley (89.5FM),Afmadow
(89.5FM) ,Kismayo (89.5FM), Jowhar (97.0FM), Marka (97.0FM), Dhusamareeb (89.5FM),
Beledweyne (88.5), Abud Waq (89.5FM), Bosasso (88.5FM) and Galkacyo (88.5FM).
In order to allow for a more Somali focused programming, the Star FM Mogadishu branch has its
own local programming and it is also planned for the stations based in Somalia to have local
programming (with relay from Mogadishu, not Nairobi). Star FM programming consists of news,
entertainment, political, business, sports and humanitarian programs. The station rebroadcasts
programmes of the BBC and VOA Somali Service as well as Radio Ergo.
Star FM has 35 employees in Mogadishu overall (including 7 staff in Mogadishu; 5 journalists, 1
technician and 1 civil society coordinator). The station obtains its funds through advertisements
as well as owners’ contribution. The current director is Mohamed Hass an Osman and the
Chairman is Mahamud Abdullahi.
5. Voice of America (VOA) Somali Service 88.0 FM (Hargeisa) / shortwave 13580, 15620 and 1431
kHz www.voanews.com/somali
Voice of America Somali Service was founded in 2007. Along with the BBC Somali Service, it is the
most popular and trusted radio station in Somalia. The AU/UN IST survey conducted in
November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors found that of the sixteen radio stations pre-coded in
the survey, VOA Somali Service was the second most popular radio station in South/Central
Somalia (“ever listened to”) and the fourth most frequently listened to. 61% of respondents said
they listened to the station least once a day.
The station headquarters are located in Washington, USA. This station broadcasts in the entire
country on shortwave on 13580, 15620 and 1431 kHz and on medium wave from powerful
transmitters in Djibouti. In addition, VOA broadcasts in English and Somali from its own FM
transmitter in Hargeisa on 88.0 FM. The VOA Somali Service is also rebroadcast on FM by several
radio stations in Somalia although not all are official relay partners. Radio stations that relay VOA
programmes on FM include: Radio Muqdisho, Radio Kulmiye, Jubba Radio, Radio Dalsan, Radio
Goobjoog and Star FM in Mogadishu – Sector 1 / Radio Baidoa in Baidoa – Sector 3 / Radio
Beledweyne in Hiiran region and Radio Dhuusamareeb (unofficially) in Galgaduud – Sector 4 /
Radio Galgadud (non-official) (Guriceel town) and in Galgaduud region – Sector 4 / Radio
Abudwaq (Abudwaq) in Central Somalia / Radio Daljir, and Radio Garowe in Puntland.
Programmes are also streamed on the internet through the VOA Somali Service website.
The VOA Somali Service broadcasts news, entertainment programmes and talk-shows from
studios in Washington on shortwave four times a day at the following times: 06:30, 16:00, 19:00
and 20:00. The VOA Somali Service has introduced short interviews with Somalis in different
parts of Somalia and the world. The VOA's network of correspondents is wide and VOA
journalists can be found across Somaliland, Puntland, and southern Somalia. Similar to the BBC
Somalia Service, the VOA Somali Service has faced challenges operating on the ground,
particularly in southern Somalia. Al Shabaab has banned local stations from broadcasting VOA or
BBC, accusing them of violating Islamic law and using pro-western information.
Along with BBC, the VOA Somali Service is one of the most popular and trusted international
broadcasters in Somalia.
16
1.2 Radio stations based in South/Central Somalia
Sector I
There are 25 radio stations with their HQs located in Sector I as well as two radio stations belonging
to Al Shabaab in Baraawe (Radio Andalus and Radio Al Furqaan).14 Other Radio’s that Broadcast’s in
Sector one include Sector one include Star FM. Star FM has transmitters in Mogadishu (105.1FM),
Jowhar (97.0FM) and Marka (97.0FM).
1. Aman Radio xxxFM
Aman Radio will be an all-female Mogadishu-based station, with a mission to raise the profile of
Somali women and train them in the media. The station, which broadcasts from its offices in
Hawlwadag district, is being launched by the Nasib Information and Media Training Centre for
Women with financial backing from Somali women in the diaspora. The centre offers young
women interested in media a number of journalism courses, which Aman Radio will complement
by providing graduates an opportunity to practice their new skills at the station. The radio is
going to produce programmes that focus on the education of young girls and celebrate the
positive contributions Somali women have made to society during the civil war. Currently the
radio has 25 employees. Aman Radio Assistant Director is Farhia Farah Roble.
2. Radio Banadir 103.4FM www.radiobanadir.com
Radio Banadir is a privately owned station which was founded in 21 February 2000 in Shibis
district. It was closed in 2010 and reopened in January 2012 in Karan district, Mogadishu. The
station broadcasts news, entertainment, sports, social affairs and religious programmes as well
as music. It is on air for 13 hours a day; 7:00-10:00 and 13:00-23:00. The station has a fairly wide
coverage area which includes Mogadishu, Middle and Lower Shabelle. It employs 25 staff and 6
trainees and is a member of the National Union of Somali Journalists ()15. The station’s owner is
the businessman Ahmed Nur Ali “Ahmedna” and its Director is Hassan Salad Hassaan.
Two staff were wounded in 2010 in Mogadishu with stray bullets. Radio Banadir was closed
between early 2011 to January 2012 after Al Shabaab fighters used the radio building as shelter
during the fighting in Mogadishu.
3. Radio Dalsan 91.5FM www.dalsanradio.com
Radio Dalsan was founded in 4 April 2012 and is located in Wadajir district, Mogadishu. The radio
is managed by Hassan Ali Geesey, a veteran Somali journalist who has returned from Nairobi
where he served as an exile journalist for the past four years. The owner of the station is called
Mohamed Cajiib. The station airs 15 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 12:00-00:00) in Mogadishu and
surrounding areas. The station can also be listened to via live stream on its website. Its
programming consists of news, entertainment, and programmes about peace, youth and women
affairs. Dalsan radio receives small funds from SYAO (local youth development organization) as
well as from advertisement. Radio Dalsan relays VOA Somali Services programmes as well as
14
See Section 1.4
Many countries have different representative organisations/trade unions for the journalists and the broadcasters. In
Somalia however, NUSOJ represents journalists only.
15
17
radio Ergo’s programmes (an hour daily). The station employs 29 people16 and is a member of
NUSOJ.
Early February 2013, a journalist at Radio Dalsan, Abdiaziz Abdinur Ibrahim, was sentenced to a
year in prison after interviewing a woman who alleged that government soldiers raped her.
Ibrahim was charged with insulting state institutions, and court documents claimed he induced
the woman to give false evidence.17
4. Radio Danan 94.0FM www.radiodanan.net
This privately owned station is based in Bakara Market, Mogadishu. It was founded in 2009.
Danan Radio broadcasts 14 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 12:00-23:00) in Mogadishu and its
surroundings. The station broadcasts news programs, entertainment, women, youth, sports and
music programmes. The station has 20 employees (including females) and 5 trainees. It is a
member of NUSOJ and gets some incomes from advertisement. The owner and director of Radio
Danan is Mohamed Barre Fiyoore.
Located in Bakara market under Al Shabaab rule, the radio saw its audience shrink as it was
facing Al Shabaab censorship; the group was intervening in the editorial policy, forbidding the
radio from playing music or broadcasting any sports programs. This lead most of the senior
reporters to join other radios located in the areas controlled by the government.
5. Radio Goobjoog 88.5FM www.goobjoog.com
Goobjoog FM 88.5MHz is a privately owned Radio station which was founded in July 2012. The
radio station is located in the Hodan district of Mogadishu, Goobjoog currently airs 15hours a day
and it covers Mogadishu and surrounding districts such as Lower and Middle Shabelle. Radio
Goobjoog currently airs programmes which consist of news, sports, music, education, history,
health and participatory programs. The station is owned by Abshir Ahmed ‘Bukhair’ along with
other Somali Diaspora who contribute to the day to day costs. The station is directed by Hassan
Mohamud Mohamed. They currently have 53 employees and goes by their slogan ‘Always loyal
to the Public.
6. Radio Iftin 94.5FM www.radioiftin.com
Radio Iftin (“light” in Somali) was founded in July 2012 as the first education based radio stations
in Somalia. Iftin focuses solely on educational news and progammes, their aim is to give those in
the education field a voice. The station is based in KM 5, Wadajir district in Mogadishu and is on
air 11 hours a day. It currently has 13 employees and is owned by PanAfrica media group. The
current Director is Ahmed Mohamud ali.
7. Gool FM 99.0FM www.goolfm.net
Gool FM is the first and only all-sports radio station (with an emphasis on football) established in
Somalia. The station was founded on the 15th May 2012. Gool Fm is a privately owned radio
station and is currently based in KM 5, Wadajir district in Mogadishu. It broadcasts sport news
16
These numbers include not only journalists but also management and administrative staff (such as guards, secretaries
and cleaners). The numbers of staff’ are most likely indicative of the individuals that are “affiliated” with a station rather
than actual employees. (Oxford PCMLP, 2013)
17
Al Jazeera, Fear spreads after Somali journalist jailing, 5 February 2013
18
and programmes 16 hours a day in Mogadishu, from 8:00-00:00. Gool FM has hired experienced
radio journalist who have previously worked within the field of sports news for different media
houses. It currently has 27 employees. The Station is owned by PanAfrica Media Group and the
Director is Abdifatah Omar Halane.
8. Radio Jowhar 89.5FM www.radiojowhar.com (website under construction)
Radio Jowhar is a privately-owned station which was founded on 16 February 2013. It is located
in Hantiwadaag district in Jowhar (Middle Shabelle). It is on air 12 hours a day; 7:00-9:00 and
12:00-00:00. It also re-broadcasts BBC Somali service programs as well as a weekly Somali
program by Radio Hirad which is owned the Free Press Unlimited. The station employs 15 people
and is a member of NUSOJ. The Director is Mohamed Abukar Caseyr.
9. Radio Jubba 99.5FM
Radio Jubba is a privately owned station which was established in Baidoa October 2008. The
branch in Baidoa was closed by Al Shabaab after the radio’s equipment including the FM
transmitter was taken away by Al Shabaab in September 2011. The radio subsequently moved to
Mogadishu (Wadajir) and re-opened in January 2012. It is now located in Hamar Jajab disctrict.
The station airs 14 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 12:00-23:00) in the Mogadishu region with 40% of
its programs in Maymay. It is the most listened to by Maymay-speaking IDPs in Mogadishu
because it broadcasts in their language. Its programming consists of news, music, sports,
education, peace and gender programmes. The station also relays VOA Somali programmes.
The station has around 30 employees and is a member of NUSOJ. It receives income from
advertisement as well as contribution from the owner, a Somali diaspora living in Denmark,
called Abdiaziz Mayow. The Director of radio Jubba is Mukhtar M. Atoosh.
10. Radio Kasmo 89.1FM
Radio Kasmo was founded on the 1st of January 2013 in the capital of Somalia Mogadishu. Kasmo
is Somalia’s first all women radio station. It was officially launched in Mogadishu during the
international Women’s day which was celebrated on the 8th of March 2013. The radio station
broadcasts on a frequency of 89.1 MHz with a power of a 100 Watts and operates from 12 p.m.
to 6 p.m. every day. The station is the ‘first independent community radio station’ which is
managed and run by the women’s NGO, women for Relief and Development Actions (WARDA).
WARDA’s executive director is Ms Deko Osman. The establishment of this community radio is
sponsored by UNESCO’s International Programme for the development of Communication
(IPDC), which is the only multilateral forum in the UN systems, designed to mobilize the
international community to discuss and promote media development in developing countries.
The mission of radio Kasmo is to focus and speak on women issues. Radio Kasmo Aims to provide
a platform for women voices, especially those who have been subjected to human rights abuses,
to be heard on radio and talk about their problems to the Somali and international community.
Radio Kasmo is Also and partner with Radio Xamar (The Voice of Democracy).
11. Radio Kulmiye 88.0FM www.kulmiyenews.com
Radio Kulmiye is a privately owned station that was founded in February 2011 by Osman
Abdullahi Guure, a well-known poet who used to be the director of Shabelle Radio and
Abdirahman Al Adala, the former deputy director of Somali National TV. The station is based in
Hamarweyne district, Mogadishu. It broadcasts in Mogadishu, Middle and Lower Shabelle region
19
and is on air 15 hours a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-00:00. Its programming consists of news,
poems, sports, music and programmes on culture, peace, religion and human rights. The station
works in partnership with Free Press Unlimited (media training) and relays programmes from
VOA, Radio Ergo. It has 45 employees (including four women) and is a member of NUSOJ.
Its broadcasts are streamed live on the internet and the radio station’s website offers written
news in Somali and English. The station has attracted a substantial audience because of its
reputation for reliability and balance. The AU/UN IST survey conducted in November 2012 across
AMISOM 4 sectors found that of the sixteen radio stations pre-coded in the survey, Radio
kulmiye was the sixth most popular radio station in South/Central Somalia (“ever listened to”)
and the fifth most frequently listened to. 49% of respondents said they listened to the station
least once a day.
Two of Radio Kulmiye staff members were wounded. In April 2012 the reporter Ahmed Ali Kahiye
was wounded during the suicide explosion at the National theatre. In September 2012, another
reporter, Abdullahi Sultan, was seriously injured during the suicide attack at the Village
restaurant.
12. Radio Maanta 95.5FM www.radiomaanta.com
Radio Maanta is a privately owned radio station that was founded in early 2012. The station is
owned by one of Somalia’s Member of Parliament (and famous businessman) Addow Ali Gees.
The Director of the radio is called Ali Abdirahman (Ali Deeq). This media outlet is located in Baar
Ayaan, near the Mogadishu Stadium, from where it broadcasts news and entertainment
programmes in Mogadishu. The radio is on air 13 hours a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-22:00. It
employs 20 staffs and is a member of NUSOJ. Radio Maanta gets its revenues from
advertisements and also gets some funds from the owner.
13. Radio Mogadishu City 102.8FM
Radio Mogadishu City is one of the newly established stations in Mogadishu (Siinay area). It is a
privately owned radio station which was founded in August 2012. It is on air 9 hours a day and
broadcasts in Mogadishu. Its programming mainly consists of news, entertainment and youthoriented programs. Radio Mogadishu City has 8 staff members and is a member of NUSOJ. It
receives financial backing from the owners. The director of the station is Shiine Abdi Gedhi.
14. Radio Muqdisho 90.0FM and 88.8FM (Mogadishu) and 90.0 FM (Baidoa) 90.0 FM (Kismayo) 88.0
FM (Beledweyne) www.radiomuqdisho.net
Radio Muqdisho is state run radio and is located inside the Ministry of Information compound. It
was founded in 1951 by the Aideed family until it shut down in 1991.18 It was reopened in 2003
and was later handed over to the Ministry of Information in October 2009.19 The current
18
The radio also opened briefly in 1993/4 during UNOSOM operation and was under the control of former Warlord
Mohamed Farrah Aideed. The radio was bombed after Aideed’s Somali National Alliance, which claimed Presidential power,
used it to incite violence towards UN forces. After the UN bombed the ‘official’ Radio Mogadishu, Aideed quickly resumed
broadcasting with another station, also called “Radio Mogadishu, Voice of the Masses of the Somali Republic”. Several
other stations owned by warlords were also broadcasting under the name ‘Radio Mogadishu’ including Aideed’s main rival,
Ali Mahdi Mohamed, who started “Radio Mogadishu”, and Osman Ali Ato, who launched “Radio Mogadishu, Somali
Pacification” (Oxford PCMLP, 2013).
19
There was another period between 2003 and 2009 when the radio stopped broadcasting before resuming its
programmes again.
20
Director of the radio is Abdirahim Isse Adow. The station has around 50 staff members (130 in
the whole Ministry of Information) and is a member of NUSOJ. UNSOA supports Radio Muqdisho
in some technical aspects. Its programs include news, political debates, religious programmes,
entertainment, awareness, sport and music. It also relays some programmes from the VOA
Somali Service. The station broadcasts in Somali (with small sections in English) for 18 hours
(6:00-00:00) in Mogadishu, Middle Shabelle and Lower Shabelle. Radio Muqdisho broadcasts in
Baidoa and Beledwayne. Radio Muqdisho is also meant to broadcast in Kismayo (via radio
Kismayo) but at the time of writing this report Radio Kismayo – which airs via a transmitters
provided by the Ministry of Information – was reportedly broadcasting its own local
programming.
The AU/UN IST survey conducted in November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors found that of the
sixteen radio stations pre-coded in the survey, Radio Muqdisho was the third most popular radio
station in South/Central Somalia (“ever listened to”) and the third most frequently listened to.
62% of respondents said they listened to the station least once a day.
Like many other stations Radio Muqdisho was subjected to threats by Al Shabaab however the
TFG government of Sheikh Sharif encouraged the journalists to continue reporting on the current
affairs of the nation despite the Al Shabaab ban. Therefore Radio Muqdisho was one of the few
stations that reported on issues that were censored by Al Shabaab. Besides its strong opposition
to Al Shabaab, Radio Muqdisho arguably also has a pro-governement stance.
Four of Radio Muqdisho staff members were killed by Al Shabaab in different times and
locations. Two of those journalists, Sheikh Nur Abkey and Yusuf Ali Osman were assassinated in
2009 and 2012 respectively, while the two others were killed at Village Restaurant bombing on
20 September 2012.
15. Mustaqbal Radio 97.9FM (Mogadishu) 89.5FM (Beledweyne) www.mustaqbalradio.com
Radio Mustaqbal is a privately owned radio station which was founded in March 2012. Radio
Mustaqbal is based in Hodan district in Mogadishu and broadcasts in Mogadishu, Middle
Shabelle and Lower Shabelle. The station is on air for 18 hours from 6:00-00:00. Its programming
consists of news, education, social affairs, sports, business and political programmes. Some of
the Radio’s income comes from advertisements, however the station is still relatively new
therefore the proprietor still contributes to the station financially.
The station has 58 staff members and is a member of NUSOJ. Free Press International, a Dutch
press freedom organization who supports the station with training of its reporters and Partner
with Ergo supported International Media Support (IMS). The owner of radio Mustaqbal station is
Mustafa Sheik from Mustaqbal Media Corporation (MMC) and the Director is Aweys Haji Noor
(Aweys Aar).
On 18th of March 2013, Mohamed Ali Nuhurkey a senior producer from Mustaqbal Radio was
killed in a suicide car bombing at the vicinity of the National Theatre, along with Abdirashid Nur
Ibrahim a reporter from Mustaqbal Radio who was also wounded in the accident. Mustaqbal
Radio is also partners with NUSOJ and helps support and sponsor the Somali journalists for the
trainings. Radio Mustaqbal has also installed a new FM station in Beledweyne, which transmits
their programs from their Mogadishu branches to their more local broadcast.
21
16. Raxanreeb Broadcasting Corporation (RBC) www.raxanreeb.com
Radio Raxanreeb is a web-based radio, founded in January 2005 and based in the Medina district
of Mogadishu. Raxanreeb covers the Horn of Africa with programmes focusing on news,
entertainment, sports and politics. They currently have 17 staff members (with 5 based in
Mogadishu). This station is also a member of NUSOJ. Raxanreeb broadcasting generate their
income from advertisements and some contribution from their owners. The current owner is
Farah Ahmed Atto. Their programmes stream online 24/7 via webstream.
17. Radio Risaala 102.2 FM www.risaala.net
Risaala Radio was founded in April 201120 and is privately owned. It broadcasts only in
Mogadishu where its outlet is based and is on air for 17 hours a day; 6:00-23:00. Until recently,
Risaala Radio used to have live streaming capacity on its website, which allowed people in the
Diaspora to listen to the radio. Its programmes include news, education, social affairs, sports,
music and business. It also unofficially relays some BBC programmes in order to attract audience.
The station has 21 employees (3 trainees) and is a member of NUSOJ. Free Press International, a
Dutch press freedom organization supports the station with training of its reporters. The owner
of Risaala radio is Sheikh Dahir Gelle and Director; Mohamed Abdiwahab.
-
Radio Sahan 104.5FM www.radiosahan.org (WEBSITE ONLY – RADIO INACTIVE)
Radio Sahan was a privately owned radio station founded in 2008, however it was shut down in
2010 by the Islamist militia group Al Shabaab. The radio equipment including the FM radio was
removed from the building and was later sold out. The station was located in Shibis district,
Mogadishu. Radio Sahan used to be on air 12 hours a day (7:00-9:00 and 12:00-22:00) and
broadcasted in Mogadishu and its surrounding areas. It had 15-22 employees and a member of
NUSOJ. Despite the radio station being shut down, the website is still active.
18. Radio Shabelle 101.5FM www.shabelle.net
Radio Shabelle is a privately owned radio station which was founded in May 2002 in Marka and
later moved to Mogadishu in September 2003. It is currently and based in Waberi district,
Mogadishu. It forms part of the privately-owned Shabelle Media Network which also owns an
internet TV service and a well-respected news website. Radio Shabelle broadcasts in Mogadishu
and Lower Shabelle region for 15 hours a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-23:00. The station broadcasts
news and entertainment programmes in Somali, English and Arabic, as well as political debates.
It also rebroadcasts few BBC Somali Service programs. The station is a member of NUSOJ and
currently has between 25 and 35 staff members21 (3 trainees) which include Shabelle Radio,
Shabelle TV and SKY FM. Most of the station’s income comes from advertisement as well as
training funds from National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The Director of the station is
Abdi Mohamed Ismail (Abdi Cuud). The owner, Abdimaalik Yusuf, is based in London.
The AU/UN IST survey conducted in November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors found that of the
sixteen radio stations pre-coded in the survey, Radio Shabelle was the fifth most popular radio
20
Risaala was formerly known as IQK radio but that station was confiscated by Al Shabaab in 2010. The owner later opened
a new station with the new name “Risaala”.
21
There is contradiction information about Radio Shabelle’s number of staff. Some claims that there is a much larger
number of people working for the radio.
22
station in South/Central Somalia (“ever listened to”) and the second most frequently listened to.
65% of respondents said they listened to the station least once a day.
Radio Shabelle has been the most vulnerable outlet to assassinations targeting Somali journalists.
Seven staff members of Radio Shabelle were killed and wounded in different instances. In 2007,
the radio director Mukhtar Hirabe was killed in Bakara market, and the same year another
Director, Bashir Gedi, was killed. In February 2012, the radio Director Hassan Fantastic was shot
dead in Mogadishu. Ahmed Addow Anshur, Hassan Mayow, Mahad Jarmal and Mohamed
Tuuryare were also assassinated in Mogadishu, Beledweyn and Afgooye. In September 2012
Shabelle radio editor Muhyidin Husni escaped assassination attempt by unknown people in
Mogadishu after he sustained minor injuries.
19. Radio Simba 95.0FM www.simbanews.com
Radio Simba is a privately owned station that was founded on July 2006. This station is located in
Bakara market, Hawlwadag district. It broadcasts in Mogadishu and surrounding regions. It airs
14 hours a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-23:00. The radio had 30 staff members (6
trainees/volunteers) and is a member of NUSOJ. It gets incomes from advertisement. The
station’s programming includes news, sport, music, social programs, health programs and
dramas. The owner/Director of the station is Abdullahi Farah (Atoosh).
Radio Simba lost most of its audience during Al Shaabab presence in Mogadishu when the station
was forced not to play music or air sport programs, the news was censored and the interference
with editorial policy, equally constant. Most of the senior reporters fled from the radio and
joined the radios located in the areas controlled by the government. The audience of Radio
Simba has started increasing again over the last 6 months.
20. SKY Radio 87.5FM
Sky FM Radio was founded in October 2012 and is privately owned. It is a sister radio of Radio
Shabelle which was established by the owner of Radio Shabelle, Abdimaalik Yusuf. The station
also shares the same premises in Waberi district, Mogadishu. The station’s broadcasting content
focuses on youth programmes, news, sports, music, entertainment and call-in programmes. It is
on air 15 hours a day (9:00-00:00) and broadcasts in Mogadishu and surrounding areas. It is
member of NUSOJ.
21. STN Radio 98.5FM www.stnradio.com
STN radio was founded in 2000 but remained closed from 2006 to 2011 before being eventually
re-launched in 2012. This privately owned station is situated in Bakara Market (Hawlwadaag
district) and broadcasts in Mogadishu for 17 hours a day. Its programmes include news, political
debates and programmes on social affairs, culture and peace. The station has 35 employees
(including 6 trainees/volunteers) and is a member of NUSOJ. Some of the station income comes
from advertisement. The owner and Director of STN radio is Ahmed Abdulahi Mohamed.
22. Radio Ummadda 92.5FM www.radioummadda.com
Ummadda Radio is a privately owned station founded in July 2012 by Farah Sheikh Abdulkader,
the current President’s political advisor and Abdikarim Hussein Guled, the interior Minister. It is a
Radio close to the Dam Al-Jadeed group and the PDP party of the current President (the radio
23
was mainly supporting Hasaan Sheikh’s candidacy in September election). It is based in Wadajir
district, Mogadishu. The station broadcasts 6 hours a day in Mogadishu; 7:30-8:30, 13:00-15:00
and 18:00-21:00. Its programming consists of news, political and entertainment programmes as
well as sports, music, religions, business and education programmes. It has around 20 employees
and is a member of NUSOJ. The owner, Farah Sheikh Abdukadir who is currently an MP and State
Minister for the presidency contributes to some of radio costs. The Director of the station is
Abdiqasim Mo’alim.
23. VOD Radio Xamar (The Voice of Democracy) 93.5FM www.xamarradio.com
Radio Xamar also referred to as “The Voice of Democracy” was founded in July 2004. It is located
in Yaaqshiid district of Mogadishu. Radio Xamar is privately owned with other income from
advertisement. It has 25 employees (7 trainees/volunteers) and is a member of NUSOJ. Radio
Xamar broadcasts in Mogadishu and surrounding areas for 18 hours a day.The former Director
Abdirahman Yasin was among the three journalists killed in the Village restaurant suicide
bombing in September 2012. The current owner is called Da’ud Abdullahi Gabeyre.
24. Radio Xurmo 96.0FM www.xurmo.net
Radio Xurmo was founded in 2006. It is the only community radio station in Waberi district,
Mogadishu that focuses on humanitarian issues. It is owned by local NGO (INXA) and civil society
groups. It receives funds both from advertisement and from INXA NGO. The station airs 13 hours
a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-22:00. Radio Xurmo’s programming focuses on humanitarian news.
The radio relays the daily one-hour broadcast of Radio Ergo. It is a member of NUSOJ and has 16
staff members (2 trainees). The Director is called Abdifatah Maalim Noor Qeys. In August 2010,
former radio Xurmo Director Barkhad Cawaale Aadan was killed after a stray bullet hit him in the
radio station.
25. Radio Qaran 89.7FM www.radioqaran.com
Radio Qaran is a Somali based radio station which is located in the Hodan district of Mogadishu.
It was created on June 2013 and currently has 42 employees. It’s privately owned by Abdikarim
Khalif, with Farah Lamaane serving as the Chief Editor. Radio Qaran is also a member of the
National Union of Somali Journalist (NUSOJ). It covers the Mogadishu, Lower Shabelle and Middle
Shabelle regions with their FM transmitters. Radio Qaran also reports Daily Somali news as well
as current affairs. It airs twice daily at 06:00-09:00 and 12:00-23:00.
Sector II
Upon departing the city, Al Shabaab dismantled their radio outlet (and only radio that was present in
this region): Radio Andalus. Radio Andalus remain present in Lower Jubba (Jilib) and Middle Jubba
(Jaamame).
There are currently only two radio broadcasts in Kismayo region; Radio Kismayo and Radio BarKulan (RBK). However Star FM will be broadcasting in Kismayo on the 20th October 2013, Although
Star FM currently broadcast in other areas of sector II; Elwak(89.5FM), Dhobley 89.5FM) and
Afmadow (89.5FM). It is also reported by sources inside Kismayo that persons living in this region are
also able to tune in to BBC Somali, VOA Somali and Radio Shabelle. For those who have access, online
and satellite-delivered media is also available.
24
Radio Bar-Kulan station has installed a 1 KW transmitter that broadcasts regular RBK programming
for the population of Kismayo and surrounding area. It is anticipated that in the next few months
local content and programming specially produced for Kismayo will augment the regular RBK service.
STAR FM has a transmitter in Kismayo but not yet airing (will air from the 20th of Oct 2013).
Additionally, there is a diaspora radio initiative underway. Somalis living in the diaspora (USA) have
been collecting funds since May 2012 – through the NGO called AFREC – to install a 300 foot tall
tower and powerful transmitter with enough power for a radio and future TV broadcast
capability. This initiative includes planning for the use of alternative energy. A design is underway to
capitalize on wind/sun power to form a hybrid diesel/alternative energy source for radio broadcast.
1. Radio Kismayo 90.0 FM http://www.radiokismayo.net
Radio Kismayo is a radio station founded in January 2013 and owned by the government. The
radio transmitter was provided the Ministry of Information. The station initially broadcasted both
its own content and re-broadcasted (from satellite) daily programs of Radio Muqdisho. The
station was set to broadcast 15 hours a day; 6:00-10:00 and 12:00-23:00. Its programmes were
mainly news as well as programmes focused on youth, peace, sports and women affairs. It has 15
staff members (4 female), paid for the Ministry of Information. Radio Kismayo worked in
partnership with Radio Mogadishu and was likely to serve as a pro-government radio,
broadcasting on the same frequency (90.0FM) than Radio Muqdisho. All Radio Kismayo staff
members were newly recruited, mostly exile journalists returning from Nairobi and some from
Mogadishu. The Director of the station is Aadan Mohamed salaad.
At the time of writing this report however, due to developments on the ground, Radio Kismayo is
reported to have moved from its initial functioning. The radio now solely broadcasts its own
programming – it does not relay Radio Muqdishu anymore – and the management of the radio
has reportedly been replaced by the local authorities.
Sector III
There are three radio outlets broadcasting in Baidoa: Radio Baidoa 89.5 FM, Radio Muqadisho
(90.0FM) and Radio Bar-Kulan (92.0FM) who all broadcast in Baidoa through their own transmitters,
with only one having its Headquarters in Baidoa (Radio Baidoa).
Al Shabaab is able to broadcasts in Sector 3 via Radio Andalus in Buuloburde and in Baardheere.
1. Radio Baidoa 89.5 FM
Radio Baidoa is a newly established FM Radio in Cadada district, Baidoa. The station was founded
in September 2012. It airs 15 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 12:00-00:00) in a 40km radius around
Baidoa. The station broadcasts news, agricultural and education programmes, music and
programmes on human rights. It relays some programmes from VOA Somalia Service. It has 7
staff members and gets the majority of its income from advertisement. The owner of this radio is
called Mohamud Mohamed Kheyre, a young Somali who worked with several radios in the region
before. The chief editor is called Abdulkadir Barre.
25
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Radio Jubba 99.5FM www.jubaradio.net (INACTIVE)
Radio Jubba was established in Baidoa (Cadada area) in October 2008 and is privately owned. It
has another branch in Mogadishu. The branch in Baidoa was closed by Al Shabaab but there are
plans of re-opening the station soon. 60% of the programs in the Baidoa branch were aired in
Maymay which is the local language of the region and 40% is in national the language.
2. Radio Warsan 88.2FM www.warsannews.com
Radio Warsan previously known as Democratic Media Concern and was founded in 2002. The
station was funded by a Somali community living in the Diaspora. It used to broadcast 14 hours a
day in the Bay Region until the whole equipment (including transmitter) was captured by Al
Shaabab and renamed Radio Andalus. The station has been off air since late 2009 however has
now re-opened.
Listenership of stations in Bay region (“ever listened to”)
An AU/UN IST polling survey conducted in November 2012 found that BBC Somali Service (64%) and
VOA Somali Service (54%) were the most listened to in Baidoa, with Radio Muqdisho (41%) and Radio
Bar-Kulan (40%) coming in third and fourth position.
Sector IV
There are five radio stations with their HQs located in Sector IV as well as one radio station belonging
to Al Shabaab in Ceelbuur (Radio Andalus). Star FM has recently set up transmitters in Beledweyne
(88.5FM), Dolow (92.5FM), Dhusamareeb (89.5FM), Guriceel (89.5).
1. Radio Bulsho 85.6FM
Radio Bulsho was founded in February 2012 and is a privately owned station located in Guriceel
town (Galgaduud region). The radio is the only station in Central Somalia that speaks on behalf of
Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama’a (ASWJ). Since its creation the radio has been obtaining funds from
numerous Sufi clerics living overseas. The station broadcasts 6 hours a day in the Guriceel area.
Its programming includes news, nasheeds of Sufism and Islamic lectures. Radio Bulsho is owned
by Dr Rashiid (Somali diaspora).
2. Radio Beledweyne 88.0FM
Radio Beledweyne is a public radio station (government-owned) founded on 27 July 2012. It is
located in the heart of the city near the entrance of Lamagalay (military training camp), around
6km from the airport. The radio transmitter was provided by the Ministry of Information and
covers Beledweyne, Bulo Burte, Halgan and Buq Agable area. The station is set to broadcast 14
hours a day; 9:00-23:00. Radio Beledweyne has a partnership with Radio Muqdisho and is likely
to serve as a pro-government radio. The station broadcasts its own programmes as well as
programmes from radio Muqdisho. It also relays programmes from the VOA Somali Service. For
now, Radio Beledweyne has only 5 staff members. The Director of the station is Abdinasir Hassan
Jim’ale (Cawke).
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3. Radio Codka Hiiran 99.9FM
Radio Codka Hiiran broadcasts from Beledweyne in the region of Hiiran. It is a privately owned
station that was founded in June 2012. The radio is located in the heart of the city next to the
Police station. It airs for 12 hours a day and broadcasts news, sports, programmes on religious
youth, gender and education matters. The station also broadcasts music which was previously
banned when Al Shabaab was controlling the city. Codka Hiiran has around 20 employees and is
part of the Hiiran Journalists Association. Both Al Shabaab and the regional forces made arbitrary
arrested against the radio reporters in different times.
4. Radio Dhuusamareeb 88.8FM www.radiodhuusamareeb.com
Radio Dhusamareeb – also known as Codka Bartamaha ‘voice of the central’ – is a privately
owned radio station founded in September 2006. The station broadcasts from Dhuusamareeb
ASWJ-controlled town, capital of Galgaduud region. The radio station is on air 16 hours a day
broadcasting in Dhuusamareeb town and surrounding area. Its programming consists of news,
entertainment, business, sports, and cultural programmes. It also unofficially relays some
programmes from BBC and VOA Somali services. The station has 5 staff and is managed by
Abdijamal Mo’alim (Director). The owner is Mohamed Yaardi. The radio was closed several times
by the ASWJ administration after it aired news about movement of the Ethiopian forces in
central regions. The station is member of the NUSOJ (Union of journalists).
5. Radio Galgadud 97.7FM www.radiogalgaduud.com
Radio Galgadud is a privately owned station based in Guriceel (Galguduud region). It was
founded in September 2011. It broadcasts in the region of Galgaduud and airs intermittently as it
has been subject to closure by the ASWJ administration from time to time. It is on air for 12
hours a day and its programming consists of news, sports, music and programmes on political
and social affairs. It also relays programmes from radio Ergo and VOA Somali Service
(unofficially). The station has 14 staff (3 female) and 5 trainees. It receives training from Free
Press Unlimited and is a member of NUSOJ. It is mainly dependent on incomes from
advertisement. The owner is a businessman called Ahmed Osman Abdi.
Listenership of stations in Hiraan region (“ever listened to”)
An AU/UN IST polling survey conducted in November 2012 found that VOA Somali Service (61%) and
BBC Somali Service (54%) were the most listened to in Beledweyne, with Radio Muqdisho (41%)
coming in third position.
Central Somalia
There are six radio stations with their HQs located in Central Somalia. Other Radio’s that broadcast
there include Star FM. Star FM currently broadcasts in Abudwaaq (89.5FM).
1. Radio Abud Waq / Codka Galgaduud 88.5FM www.radiocabudwaq.com
Radio Abud Waq was founded in February 2002. This privately owned radio station is located in
Cabudwaaq, Galgadud region. Radio Abudwaq broadcasts with old transmitters in the central
regions of Somalia. Its programming consists of news, sports, music and cultural programmes.
27
Radio Abud Waq rebroadcast some of its programmes in Radio Ergo. It relays programmes from
Radio Muqdisho, VOA and Radio Ergo. It has 26 staff (10 trainees/16 volunteers) and is member
of NUSOJ. The owner is Hasan Bulhan and the Director Abdikariin Ahmed Bulhan.
2. Radio Al Ansaar 88.8FM
Al Ansaar is a newly established radio in Cadaado town (Galgaduud region) which is under the
control of Himan and Heeb administration. This privately owned station was founded in
September 2012 and broadcasts in Cadaado town. The station broadcasts news, nasheeds,
Quran and Islamic lessons of Hadith and is on air 10 hours a day. It is the only Islamic radio in
Cadaado. It has 11 staff members. The owner – Sharmarke Suuley, former district commissioner
– says his radio is independent and non-related to Islamist groups in Somalia.
3. Radio Codka Gobolada Dhexe (“Voice of Central Regions”) 89.9FM www.goboladaradio.com
Gobolada Radio was founded in April 2011 and is based in Caadado (Galgaduud region). The
station airs 14 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 13:00-00:00) in Cadaado. Its programming consists of
news, entertainment, music and sports. It also relays Radio Ergo programs. The station has only 4
staff members and receives training from Free Press International. The Director of Radio
Gobolada is called Mohamud Gurey. The station owner is Mohamed Omar Hagafey, who is also
the press officer/spokesman for the Himan and Heeb administration.
4. Radio Codka Mudug 89.5FM www.codkamudug.com
Radio Codka Mudug was founded in May 2008 and is privately owned. It is the leading radio in
Southern Galkacyo. It has outlets in Galmudug, Galkayo and Radio Codka Mudug airs 16 hours a
day (6.30-22:30) in Glakacyo and suburb areas. The station covers Somalia with an emphasis on
coverage of Galmudug state and is aligned with the administration of Galmudug (although it is
privately owned). Its programming consist of news, entertainment, music, sports etc. The station
also broadcasts weekly anti-piracy programs and relays BBC Somali Service and Radio Ergo
programs. It has 16 employees and is a member of both NUSOJ and the Media Association in
Galmudug (MAG). Radio Codka Mudug receives training from Free Press International and gets
income mainly from advertisement. The owner of the radio station is called Abdulkader Ali Jama
and his Director is Liban Isse Mohamed.
5. Radio Hobyo 87.5FM www.hobyoradio.com
Radio Hobyo is a privately owned station, founded in April 2010. It has a total of five outlets
located in Galkayo, Hobyo, El-Gurre, Mudug and Galmudug, with its headquarters in Southern
Galkacyo. Radio Hobyo crosses the borders between Puntland and Galmudug and had to face
several bomb attacks. The station airs 10 hours a day in Hobyo, Gaalkacyo and Ceelgula. Its
programming, which focuses on regions controlled by Galmudug state, includes news, sports,
music, education, health and political interviews. The station, a member of NUSOJ, has 16
employees. The owner is called Abdiasis Hogolof and is a Somali diaspora from San Diego (USA).
The Director’s name is Jamal Hashi Abdi.
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1.3 Radios stations based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
There are nine radio stations with their HQs located in Puntland. Star FM has now set up transmitters
to broadcast within in Puntland, they currently broadcast in Galkacyo (88.5FM) and Bosasso (88.5).
On Wednesday 3 April 2013, the authorities in Somalia’s northern region of Puntland have ordered
closure of three radio stations in its region, by a decree from the Puntland ministry of information.
The three local radios namely Radio Daljir, Radio One Nation and Radio Voice of Peace were ordered
to close their offices and stop airing programmes alleging that these radios violated the region’s
internal media regulation and also threatened the security.
The decree also said that the administrative of the three stations failed to comply a new rule from
the ministry of Puntland which was issued on March 2013 that banned from local radios not to
reproduce or rely any programme from three other radios including Radio Ergo, a Nairobi based
humanitarian radio supported by the United Nations and Radio Bar-Kulan, which is Somali Public
Radio based in Nairobi and Mogadishu.22
A Press statement from Puntland’s Ministry of Information in October 2013 said Bar-Kulan, Ergo and
Hirad radios can resume broadcasting to the area after a six months ban. The radio’s currently have
no studios in Puntland, therefore broadcast their programs through local FMs in the area. The
administration urged the owners of the local FMs to register the radio stations that they have
relationship with.
1. Radio Al Hikma 87.6FM (Bosasso) 90.0FM (Garowe) 90.0FM (Galkacyo) 92.0FM (Qardho) 92.0FM
(Burtinle) 92.0FM (Galdogob)
Radio Al Hikma is a privately owned station founded in 2006. It has six transmitters located in
Bosasso and Qardho (Bari region), Garowe and Burtinle (Nugal region), Galdogog and Galkayo
(Mudug region) with its headquarters located in Bosasso. Radio Al Hikma broadcasts 18
hours/day in Bosasso, Qardho, Garowe, Galkayo, Burtinle and Galdogob (with a different
transmitter in each town). It has three staffs in each of these cities (except in Galdogob and
Burtinle where there is only one person). Radio al Hikma does not employ female journalists. The
station is a member of NUSOJ and MAP (Media Association in Puntland). Radio Al Hikma does not
broadcasts news. Its programming focuses on religious programs , Quran, Islamic nasheed and
social affairs. The station does not broadcast news, music and entertainment. The station is
mainly funded by a religious organization in Puntland called ‘Al Ictisaam’. The owner is called
Mohamud Adbi Yare (Somali Diaspora living in Norway).
2. Codka Nabadda (Voice of Peace) 88.9FM (Galkacyo) www.codkanabada.org
Radio Codka Nabadda was founded in 2004 and is privately owned radio station located in
Galkayo. The station is on air 15 hours a day (6:00-9:00 and 12:00-00:00) in Galkayo. Its
programming consists of news, interviews, sports and music. It also relays BBC Somali Service.
22
A decree signed by the Puntland minister of Information, communication and culture, Eng. Mohamoud Aideed Dirir, and
dated on 21 February 2013, was issued to the all media houses operating in Puntland ordering that ‘No radio station can
reproduce or air any materials and programs of a media station that is not licensed under the ministry, such as Radio Ergo,
Radio Bar-Kulan and Radio Hirad.
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The station gets some funds from advertisement. It has 15 staff and is a member of NUSOJ and
MAP. Codka Nabadda’s owner is Prof. Ahmed Ali Ahmed.
Codka Nabadda’s Bosasso branch, which used to broadcast at 95.0FM, was shut down and its
equipment taken away by Puntland forces following an order by the Puntland administration
(this came after the radio aired an interview with al Shabaab commander). The radio’s Director
Awke Abdullahi was also jailed for more than three months without trial.
Codka Nabadda’s branch in Mogadishu was launched in March 2008 and used to broadcast at
98.8FM. However the radio’s guard was wounded in a bombardment that hit near the building in
December 2008. The radio was later closed down on February 2012, after most of the staff
members fled from Mogadishu due to insecurity. This branch station has 35 employees (including
7 female). The owner is Ahmed Ali Ahmed and the Director is Hassan Muudey.
3. Radio Daljir 88.8FM (Bosasso), xxx FM (Qardho), 88.0FM (Garowe),
(Cabudwaq/Xeerale23), 89.1FM (Galkacyo) xxx FM (Buhoodle) www.radiodaljir.com
88.0FM
Radio Daljir is a privately owned station that was founded in 2005. The station’s headquarters is
in Bosasso and also has a studio in Garowe. The station has FM transmitters in Bosasso, Garowe,
Galkacyo, Qardho, Cabudwaq/Xeraale and Buhoodle. Radio Daljir broadcasts in all of Puntland as
a result and is on air 15 hours a day; 6:00-9:00 and 12:00-23:00. Its programming consists of
news, interviews, sports and music as well as an emphasis put on politics and women issues. The
station also relays VOA programmes. It employs 56 staff members overall and is a member of
NUSOJ and MAP. It received US funds from EDC (Education Development Center) and USAID. The
owner is called Jama Abshir Walde (businessman and US diaspora) and the general Director is
Mohamed Sheikh “Tallman”.
Two journalists, Farah Jeemis (2012) and Abdulahi Gehdi (2010) were killed in Galkacyo by
unknown assailants. The director of Radio Daljir Garowe, Abdifatah Gehdi escaped an
assassination attempt in Puntland on 2nd August 2012.
4. Radio Gaalkacyo 88.2FM www.allradiogaalkacyo.com
The station was founded in August 1993 and is a community radio owned by Gaalkacyo residents
(the Director of the station is Awil Mohamud Abdi). As one of the oldest radio stations in
Galkayo, Radio Gaalkacyo has changed its shortwave transmitter to a FM transmitter. Its
programming includes news, entertainment, music, sports, health and education programmes
and is on air 12 hours a day. The station has 12 staffs (including guards) and is a member of both
NUSOJ and MAP. It gets some income from advertisement and contributions from the diaspora.
In September 2012 a reporter Ali of Radio Gaalkacyo, Ahmed Abdi, was killed in Galkacyo. Xoriyo
Abdulkadir, a female producer for the Radio was seriously wounded in November 2011 and later
fled to Nairobi.
5. Radio Garowe 89.8FM www.garoweonline.com
Radio Garowe is a privately owned station founded in 2004 by Somalis living in the diaspora. It is
located in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland. Radio Garowe is on air 16 hours a day
23
Xeerale (also known as Herale) is located in Galgadud region, 40km from Dhusamareb and 40km east of Abudwaq. The
area is under the control of ASWJ.
30
in Garowe town and suburb area. Its programming consists of news and programmes on news,
entertainment, interviews, music and sports. It also relays programmes from VOA Somali Service.
It also unofficially relays some BBC programmes in order to attract audience. It has 34 staff and is
member of both NUSOJ and MAP. Radio Garowe gets some income from advertisement as well
as contributions from the owner’s, Mohamed Abdurahman Farole, who is the son of Puntland’s
current President. Radio Garowe was popular for criticizing former Puntland’s administration but
the radio subsequently changed its editorial line in 2009 as President Farole came into office.
GaroweOnline.com is the online sister publication of Radio Garowe.
6. Radio Hage 93.0FM (Galkayo) / 3980 kHz, 6915 kHz shortwave
Radio Hage is privately owned station situated in Galkacyo which was founded in February 2008.
It has been active on shortwave on 3980 kHz and on 6915 kHz since 2009 and acquired an FM
transmitter in 2011. Radio Hage broadcasts in Galkayo area on FM and regionally through its
shortwave transmitters. It is on air 3 hours a day (15:00-17:00 and 21:00-22:00). Its programming
consists of news, sports and music. The station has 15 staff and is a member of NUSOJ and MAP.
Radio Hage’s owner and Director is called Abdikarim Aw Isse.
7. Horseed Media 89.2FM www.horseedmedia.net (WEBSITE ONLY – RADIO INACTIVE)
Radio Horseed is a privately owned station, founded in 2007, which used to relay programmes
from VOA and Radio. The station was airing 15 hours a day in Bosasso town and its surrounding.
It had 17 staff (including guards) and is a member of both of NUSOJ and MAP. Its programming
mainly consisted of news, political debates, entertainment and sports. It covered Puntland
extensively but also South/Central Somalia. The owner of the station is Mahad Muse Ahmed
(diaspora Somali living in Netherland). It was managed by Jamal Isse Hurrun (Director). The
website (www.horseedmedia.net) is still active.
In June 2010 the radio’s then Director Abdifatah Mire was sentenced for six years in jail after the
radio aired an interview with al Shabaab commander in Galgala Mountains. Radio Horseed was
shut down on Sept/Oct 2012 following a warrant of closure from Puntland administration on the
basis of false reporting on its website. The director of the station refused to publish a written
notice stating that the media outlet had report false information as per the instructions of the
Puntland authority. Its website was also restricted in Puntland towns as Puntland officials blamed
the radio for inciting insecurity.
8. One Nation Radio 89.5FM (Bosasso) 88.8FM (Garowe) www.1nationradio.com
One Nation Radio is a privately owned station based in Bosasso. It also has a branch in Garowe.
The radio airs 18 hours a day in both Bosasso and Garowe. Its programming includes news, social
affairs, music and cultural programs. Before April 3rd decree by puntland authorities, One Nation
radio used to broadcast Radio Bar-Kulan programs, as part of its 18 hours broadcasting, to its
audience in Garowe and Bosasso. The station has 11 employees in Bosasso and 8 employees in
Garowe. The station is a member of NUSOJ and MAP. It receives income from ads and small
contribution from owner. The owner of One Nation Radio is Ahmed Sagaar, a businessman living
in the diaspora. One Nation also airs Radio Bar-Kulan’s programs.
9. Radio Puntland shortwave / xxxFM (Garowe)
Radio Puntland was officially opened by President Dr. Abdurrahman Faroole in April 2013. This
new radio, which will be the voice of the Puntland administration, will be aired from Garowe and
31
will be heard throughout Puntland. The project was funded by the Italian government and
operated by Italian technicians. The governmental Puntland TV is also under way and will be
released in the near future.
10. Somali Broadcast Corporation (SBC) 89.9FM (Bosasso) 88.5FM (Garowe) 88.7FM (Qardho)
allsbc.com
SBC was the first independent radio station to be established in June 2001 in Puntland after the
fall of Siad Barre government. It has studios in Bosasso, Qardho and Garowe with Bosasso as its
headquarters. The station is on air for 15 hours a day in Puntland’s 3 regions; Bari, Karkaar and
Nugal. Its programming includes news, sports, educational and gender programmes as well as
peace and human rights programmes. In 2001 SBC obtained a staff training and equipment
rehabilitation contract with the BBC Somali Service in exchange to broadcast their transmission.
It receives income from adverts and a small fund from the BBC. Radio Daljir relays BBC Somali
Services programmes as part as their official partnership. The station has 15 staff in Bosasso, 16
in Garowe and 2 in Qardho. The station is a member of NUSOJ as well as MAP. The current owner
of SBC is Ali Abdi Aware (former Puntland minister) and the Director is Mohamed Deeq Abdalla.
SBC has also a local TV that operates in Garowe.
In 2002 the station was shut down by Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed, the then Puntland President. The
owner of the radio was a close ally of Jama Ali Jama who was elected President of Puntland
succeeding Abdulahi Yusuf, but after months of fighting Jama was ousted by Yusuf’s militia. The
station reopened in 2003 after the two warring parties signed a peace agreement.
Ahmed Hassan Mahad, a SBC radio reporter in Jowhar was killed in 16 May 2007 with his
colleague Abshir Ali Gabre, who was a reporter working for Radio Jowhar.
Somaliland
There is only one radio station with its headquarters in Somaliland;
1. Radio Hargeisa 101.5FM http://www.radiohargaysa.net
Radio Hargeisa was founded in 1943 by the British colonial authorities. It is owned and controlled
by the government of Somaliland (since 1991 when the country declared its independence from
the rest of Somalia). The station is the only station permitted to operate in Somaliland and is
based in Hargeisa. The station acquired a 100 kilowatt transmitter in October 2012 that allows
the station to broadcasts internationally. The station previously operated on a FM frequency that
was limited to broadcasting in Hargeisa only. The station broadcasts 10 hours per day in three
segments. It is on air during the following periods: 06.30-09.00, 13.00-16.00 and 18.00-22.30. It
broadcasts mostly in Somali, but also has news bulletins in English, Arabic and Amharic. The
Director of the radio is called Said Aden Igeh.
There are also two web-based radios and news websites:
Radio Waaheen www.waaheen.com
Radio Waaheen is a web-based opposition radio. Waaheen is primarily a newspaper but it has a
popular online radio service with links to BBC and VOA Somali service programmes on its website.
Hadhwanaag radio www.hadhwanaag.com
Hadhwanaag radio is a popular and influential web-based radio perceived to be neutral though it
promotes Xaqsoor party.
32
Disputed Area (Eastern Sanaag)
There are two radio stations located in Eastern Sanaag;
1. Radio Saanag 89.2FM www.radiosanaag.net
The newly opened (June 2012) Radio Sanaag is a community radio. The station is located in Baran
town of Eastern Sanaag. It broadcasts in the area of Baran and is on air 8 hours a day, with
programs combining news, social, entertainment and music. The station has 5 staff members and
is a member of NUSOJ and MAP. The owner of the station is called Jamac Ayaanle Feyte who is
the main financial backer of the radio.
2. Somali Public Radio (SPR) 89.5FM www.spr.fm
Somali Public Radio was founded in June 2010. This privately owned station is located in Waberi,
Dhahar town in the Eastern Sanag region. The station is mainly funded by Somalis from the
community living in USA. It also works with partner radios, Radio Ergo and KSAI Radio in
Minnesota (USA). Radio SPR mainly focuses on news, social issues, entertainment and the
environmental protection of the eastern Sanaag region (which is popular for deforestation). The
station is on air 11 hours a day and broadcast in Dhahar town and eastern Sanaag region at large.
It has 16 staff (including 4 trainee and 2 volunteers) and is a member of NUSOJ and MAP. The
owner of the station (US diaspora) is called Salah Nur Donyale. The Director is Naima Ahmed.
1.4 Radio stations affiliated with Al Shabaab
Radio Andalus operates a network of media outlets in South/Central Somalia. Radio Andalus has six
radio stations broadcasting from 88.8 or 88.0 FM frequencies. Another Al-Shabaab controlled radio,
Radio Al Furqaan, is located in Baraawe town (Lower Shabelle region) and broadcasts at 106.5FM.
The director of Radio Andalus is called Jibril Nur Yusuf. Jibril Nur Yusuf works under the authority of
Sheikh Yonis who is in charge for Al-Shabaab’s media stations, himself under the authority of Al
Shabaab spokesman Sheikh Ali Dheere. The station’s programming consists of Al Shabaab news
propaganda and jihadi nasheeds (with one program in Arabic on Fridays).
All Al Shabaab-controlled radio stations do not have female journalists.
1. Radio Andalus – Baraawe 88.8FM www.calamada.com
Radio Andalus in Baraawe (Lower Shabelle region) is the HQS of Radio Andalus. It was
founded in August 2010 after FM transmitters were looted from Radio IQK (a private radio in
Mogadishu). The station broadcasts in Baraawe town from 6:00 to 23:00. The station’s
programming consists of pro-Al Shabaab news, Arabic nasheeds and Quraan (Arabic programs
each Friday). The station has 5-8 staff members.
2. Radio Andalus – Jilib 88.0FM www.calamada.com
Radio Andalus Jilib (Middle Jubba region) is the second biggest station of Al Shabaab.
Formerly located in Kismayo, the station was relocated to Jilib after KDF forces, Somali
National Army and Ras Kamboni militia took over Kismayo town. The station started up using
FM transmitters looted in September 2012 from former Hornafrik radio (a privately owned
33
radio in Kismayo). It now airs 18 hours a day in Jilib area. The station’s programming consists
of Al Shabaab propaganda, jihadi nasheeds (with one program in Arabic on Fridays). The
station has 5-10 staff members.
3. Radio Andalus – Buuloburde 88.8FM www.calamada.com
This station was founded in early 2012 and is located in Buuloburde town in Hiiraan Region.
The station broadcasts in Buuloburde town and suburb area using transmitters looted by Al
Shabaab from Radio Codka Hiiraan (a private radio in Beletweyne). The station is on air 18
hours a day (6:00-00:00) and has 4-7 staff members (some of them Shabaab fighters).
4. Radio Andalus – Baardheere 88.0FM www.calamada.com
The fourth biggest station of Al Shabaab, located in Baardheere (Gedo region), was founded in
May 2012 with FM transmitters looted from Radio Markabley (a privately owned radio from
Baardhere). The station airs 18 hours a day in Baardheere town and the surrounding areas.
The station has 5-10 staff members.
5. Radio Andalus – Jamaame 88.0FM www.calamada.com
The station, founded in May 2012, is located in Jamaame town in Lower Jubba region. The
station is on air for 8 hours a day and broadcasts in Jamaame area. The station has 2-5 staff
members.
6. Radio Andalus – Ceelbuur 88.0FM www.calamada.com
Radio Andalus Ceelbuur station, founded in early 2011, is believed to use FM transmitter
looted in 2010 from former radio Somaliweyn in Mogadishu. The station was moved out from
Ceelbuur after ASWJ and Ethiopian forces seized the town in 2011 – and was reopened when
Al Shabab re-took the town. The station has 2-5 staff members.
7. Radio Al Furqaan24 106.5FM www.radioalfurqaan.com
Radio Al Furqaan is located in Baraawe town, Lower Shabelle region and was founded in April
2010. After government forces and AMISOM took over Bakara market (in Mogadishu) where
radio Al Furqaan was originally based, the radio moved to Ceelasha Biyaha (Al Shabaab
controlled area). In May 2012 Radio Al Furqan relocated to Afgooye and later to Marka.
Following the ongoing operations by AMISOM and government military which lead to Al
Shabaab losing control of the towns, radio Al Furqaan has now relocated in Baraawe,
broadcasting in the town and its suburb area. It airs from 6:00 to 22:00. The station’s
programming consists of Al Shabaab propaganda, Islamic nasheeds and Arabic nasheeds. The
station has 8-10 staff members, including the editor Abdifatah Mohamed Qasim Filibin. The
radio benefits from some income coming from business adverts.
24
The name Alfurqan is an important Islamic word, which refers to the whole Islamic religion and sometimes used as
interchangeable with the name Islam itself. Al Furqan is also the name of an Al Qaeda media organisation in Iraq which
produces a large number of Al Qaeda films.
34
1.5 Polling results
An AU/UN IST survey was conducted in November 2012 across AMISOM 4 sectors; sample of 2000
people in Mogadishu and Afgoye corridor, Beletweyne, Baidoa and Jubba (Kulbio and Dhobley).
The results of this survey found that; of the sixteen radio stations pre-coded in the survey, VOA and
BBC Somali Services are the most listened to, followed by Radio Muqdisho, Radio Bar-Kulan, Radio
Shabelle and Radio Kulmiye.
Radio Listenership by Region




In Mogadishu (Sector 1); BBC Somali Service (82%) and Radio Muqdisho (78%) were the most
listened to, with VOA Somali Service (68%), Radio Shabelle (59%) and Radio Bar-Kulan (56%)
coming in third, fourth and fifth position.
In Jubba (Sector 2); BBC Somali Service (94%) and VOA Somali Service (92%) were the main
radio stations listened to.
In Baidoa (Sector 3); BBC Somali Service (64%) and VOA Somali Service (54%) were the most
listened to, with Radio Muqdisho (41%) and Radio Bar-Kulan (40%) coming in third and
fourth position.
In Beledweyne (Sector 4); VOA Somali Service (61%) and BBC Somali Service (54%) were the
most listened to, with Radio Muqdisho (41%) coming in third position.
35
Frequency of listenership - Nov-Dec 2011/ 2012 comparisons




In terms of frequency, among the 7 radio stations quoted by the study, the top 3 radios that
the respondents listened to with the greatest frequency were: 1) BBC Somali Service 2) Radio
Shabelle 3) Radio Muqdisho (Government radio). There were followed by: 4) VOA Somali
Service 5) Radio Kulmiye 6) Radio Bar-Kulan 7) Radio Al Andalus (Al Shabaab radio).
Stable frequency: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, BBC Somali Service remains
most listened to and VOA Somalia Service remains the fourth most listened to.
Higher frequency: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, Radio Shabelle has moved
from the third to the second most listened radio station and Radio Kulmiye has moved from
the sixth to fifth most listened to.
Lower frequency: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, Radio Mogadishu has moved
down from the second to the third position and Radio Bar-Kulan has moved down from the
fifth to the sixth most listened radio station.
36
Trustworthiness - Mogadishu Nov-Dec 2011/ 2012 comparisons




BBC Somali Service (76%) and VOA Somali Service (66%) and Radio Muqdisho (49%) are
considered as the most trustworthy radio stations. These radio stations are followed by 4)
Radio Bar-Kulan 5) Radio Shabelle 6) radio Kulmiye 7) Radio Andalus.
Stable perception of trust: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, BBC Somali Service
remains most trusted and Radio Kulmiye remains the sixth most trusted.
Greater perception of trust in 2012: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, Radio BarKulan has moved from fifth to fourth most trusted radio station and VOA Somalia Service has
moved from fourth to second most trusted.
Lower perception of trust in 2012: compared to the 2011 results in Mogadishu, Radio
Shabelle has moved down from third to fifth most trusted radio station and Radio Mogadishu
has moved down from second to third most trusted.
37
Access to information





Mobile Phones are the most widely used ICT in Somalia. Nearly two-thirds of respondents
reported access to a mobile phone (with a smaller percentage of women than men).
Newspapers are now virtually non-existent.
The use of radio on mobile has increased dramatically with 56% of the respondents listening
to radio on mobile.
Online outlets are also increasingly visited including through the use of mobile phones.
Radio set availability is particularly high and internet very low in Jubba.
38
39
40
2. Television
Television viewing has become popular in Somalia with the development of satellite and online TV
services. This allows a very wide geographical coverage is a major conduit for connecting Somalis in
the diaspora with persons back home. However only those with access to electricity supply, satellite
dishes and cable connection are able to enjoy the privilege of television broadcast. For this reason
television viewing is limited to those living in urban areas. Very few towns and cities enjoy free-to-air
terrestrial television. Mogadishu, Hargeisa, Burao, Bossasso and Garowe are notable exceptions.
Several Somali language satellite TV channels have been launched over the past decade – many of
these founded in the diaspora – and the quality of programs is quickly improving. Universal TV – the
oldest and most respected TV station, based in London and Hargeisa – and Horn Cable TV – which
broadcasts from studios in London – are particularly popular. They are closely followed by the
increasingly popular Somali Channel as well as Somsat TV and Royal TV. International satellite
broadcasters in Arabic and English such as Al Jazeera have also acquired a strong audience. There are
two public (state-controlled) national TV: Somali National TV (south/central) and Somaliland National
TV (Somaliland).
Table 5: Number of TV stations in Somalia – per HQs location
LOCATION
NUMBER
(TV HQs)
INTERNATIONAL
5
REGIONAL
0
SECTOR 1
2
SECTOR 2
SECTOR 3
0
0
SECTOR 4
CENTRAL SOMALIA
0
0
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
3
0
SOMALILAND
4
TOTAL
14
Table 6: Somali TV Stations (per Headquarters location)
LOCATION
STATION
HQs
OFFICE(S) IN
(per HQs)
SOMALIA
INTERNATIONAL TV Royal 24
London
Mogadishu
Somali
London
Mogadishu
Channel TV
OWNERSHIP
COVERAGE
Private
Private
International
International
Somsat TV
London
Mogadishu
Private
International
Universal TV
London
Mogadishu
Private
International
25
BROACSTIN
G TYPE
Satellite
Satellite /
Live
webstream25
Satellite /
Live
webstream
Satellite
/
website
“Live webstream” broadcasting allows listening programs live as opposed to pre-recorded programs which can be heard
on TV’s “websites”.
41
Star TV
Shabelle TV
SOUTH/CENTRAL
SOMALIA
London
Mogadishu
Mogadishu
Mogadishu
Private
Private
International
Local
Somali
Mogadishu
National TV (with other
(SNTV)
main office
in London)
Bosasso TV
Bosasso
Mogadishu
State
International
Bosasso,
Garowe
Private
DSAT TV
antenna
Eastern
Television
Network
(ETN TV)
Somali
Broadcasting
Corporation
(SBC)
Bulsho TV
Bosasso
Bosasso
Private
Local:
Bosasso,
Garowe
Local:
Bossasso,
Garowe
Bosasso
Bosasso
Private
Local:
Bossasso
Garowe
Terrestrial
Burao
Hargeisa,
Burao
Private
Terrestrial
Hargeisa,
Mogadishu
Private
Local:
Hargeisa,
Burao
International
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
State
Local
&
International
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Local
PUNTLAND
SOMALILAND
Horn
TV
Cable Hargeisa
Somaliland
National
Television
(SLNTV)
Somaliland
Space
Channel
Satellite
Analog
Atenna
Satellite
Terrestrial
Statellite/
Live
webstream
Terrestrial
(Hargeisa)
Satellite
(elsewhere)
Terrestrial
2.1 TV stations with their headquarters located outside Somalia
1. Somali Channel TV: 3600/2800 Thaicom 5 www.somalichannel.tv
Somali Channel TV was founded in March 2010 and is based in London but also has a second
station in Hamarweyne in Mogadishu. The station programmes mainly include news, interactive
political debates/talk show and programmes on Islamic issues and social affairs. It is on air 24
hours, seven days a week a week and broadcasts internationally (via satellite). Somali Channel’s
TV programmes are also streamed live through the website. Somali Channel also uploads most
of its video content to its You Tube channel.
The channel has reporters throughout Somalia, but it was banned from operating in Puntland in
November 2011 (it is now back on air in Puntland). The TV station employs about 80/100 people
(15 are in the Mogadishu office). The TV station owner is Mahdi Mohamed and its Director
Mohamed Said.
Three employees of Somali Channel TV have been wounded. One of them, Hamdi Abdullahi was
among the journalists wounded in the Theatre suicide bombing in April 2012.
42
2. Somsat TV Hot Bird 13 Degree East somsattv.com
Somsat TV, formerly known as Somalisat TV was founded in October 2011. It has its headquarters
in London and a second station in Mogadishu. Somsat TV broadcasts 24/ 7 by satellite in Africa,
Europe, Asia, Middle East and Australia. The channel is also available internationally as a live
webstream on the internet. The stations programming includes news, Islamic programmes and
sports. The station does not broadcast music as per its editorial policy. It broadcasts programmes
in both Maymay and Mahatiri. The TV station has 68 employees (including 6 staff members in the
Mogadishu office) and is a member of NUSOJ. In its early stages of development, the channel is
still partly funded by the owner of the channel Mahamed Ahmed Ali (London based) and in part
from advertisement. The Director of Somsat Somali office (in Mogadishu) is Adam Jama Ahmed.
3.
Star TV Hotbird Frequency: 11240 satellite www.smcorp.tv
Star TV is a new home-grown British, Somali Channel. It’s an independent and progressive
media organisation which officially launched on the 30th of June 2013. Star TV has offices and
studios in both Europe and East Africa and will also be available on satellite and online for a
worldwide audience. Star TV features a wide variety of shows both in English and Somali. The
programmes are family oriented but will also include content specifically geared towards the
new generation of the youth, particularly those living in the Diaspora and in East Africa: “Talk
the Talk”, a youth show focusing on everyday issues affecting the youth in the UK, “Live with
Dawn”, a current affairs programme and “Baadisaac”, a show that gives insights into Somali
culture and many more. The station was created in December 2012 in England and Wales and is
owned and managed by a Somali speaking youth in the diaspora.
4. TV Royal 24 Thaicom and Hot Bird www.tvroyal24.com
TV Royal 24 is a privately owned television station that was founded in 2010. The TV station’s
headquarters is based in London (with its second HQs in Dubai) and has another station situated
in Mogadishu. TV Royal 24 broadcasts 24 hours a day and can be viewed internationally. It has 23
staffs and benefits from incomes from advertisement. The owner of TV Royal 24 is called Asad
Abukar Mahdi. The Director is Ali Abukar Mahdi.
5. Universal TV 3640/27500 Thaicom 5 www.universaltv.co
Universal TV is a privately owned TV station that was founded in London in January 2005. It was
the first Somali satellite television station to go on air and is probably the most popular, wellknown and respected Somali language TV station. Its headquarters is situated in London, with
another main office in Mogadishu (and another one in Djibouti). It programming includes news,
political programmes, music, and entertainment, cultural as well as peace building programmes.
It airs 24 hours a day, 7 days per week to Somali speakers throughout the world. Its programmes
can be viewed internationally via its website as well as on satellite TV. The stations employs 50
person overall (including 6 staff members in Mogadishu) and is a member of NUSOJ. Universal
has an extensive network of reporters in Somalia and around the world. It also airs numerous
advertisements for the service industry, including remittance agencies, airlines, import/export
companies and other international businesses, inside and outside Somalia. Universal TV owner,
based in London, is called Ahmed Abubakar. The TV station is perceived to be rather neutral.
On July 2012, a reporter for Universal TV, Abdukadir Abdulle was seriously wounded in
Mogadishu. On 31 July 2012, a comedian who was working for both Universal TV and Radio
Kulmiye, Abdi Malaaq Marshaale, was killed in Mogadishu.
43
2.2 TV stations based in South/Central Somalia
1. Shabelle TV www.shabelle.net
Shabelle TV is a privately owned television station that was founded in 2005. The station is
situated in Waberi district in Mogadishu. It airs 7 hours a day and its programming includes news,
sports and music. The TV station has 16 employees and is a member of NUSOJ. The owner of
Shabelle Radio and TV station is Abdimalik Yusuf (based in London).
2. Somali National TV (SNTV) www.sntv.gov.so
3640/ 28066 ¾ Thaicom, Hot Bird 13A (13.0°E) 157 Horizontal: 2500 FR: 11642.00 MHz
Somali National TV is the official television station of the Federal Republic of Somalia. It is located
in Mogadishu (with another major office in London and another one in Nairobi). The station is
owned and managed by the Ministry of Information of Somali Federal Government. The station
was founded in 1983 but was off air since 1991. It was later re-established in April 2011. It was
the first time a government TV station has operated since the fall of President Siad Barre in 1991.
It is on air 24 hours a day and broadcasts pro government news, debates, religion, music and
sports programmes and can be viewed internationally via satellite. The station has 65 employees
in general (including 18 in Mogadishu). It receives most of its funds from the Ministry of
information as well as some support from UNPOS. The Director of the Media section for the
Ministry of information is called Abdukadir Jimcaale and the Director of TV station is called
Abdurahman Yusuf Omar (Cadaala). Two of SNTV’s popular presenters were killed in the Village
restaurant explosion of September 2012.
2.3 TV stations based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
1. Bosasso TV DIGITAL FM 668
Bosasso TV is using a DSAT TV antenna that re-broadcasts from international channels such as
CNN, Al Jazeera and Press TV to its local station. Bosasso TV charges $165 to its viewers for a year
rental antenna. The station was founded in July 2011 and broadcasts in Bosasso town 6 hours a
day; 18:00-00:00. It’s also a member of NUSOJ and MAP and has 15 staff members. Its
programmes include health, entertainment, music and sports. The owner of Bosasso TV is called
Yusuf Isse.
2. Eastern Television Network(ETN) FM TV 682/663
ETN is the main local TV station in Bosasso. In 2005 when it was founded, ETN was airing from its
former headquarters in Nairobi Kenya, however in 2009 the television station relocated to
Somalia. The station has two branches located in Bosasso and Garowe. It broadcasts 6 hours a
day in both towns, with programmes combining news, music, culture, sports and ads. The station
has 17 employees. The owner is Abdirahman Sheikh.
3. Somali Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) www.allsbc.com
This television station is located in Bosasso and was founded in 2003. It is an extension of the
aforementioned radio station (SBC). It can also be seen in Garowe, the administrative capital. SBC
TV broadcasts news, sports, discussions and educational and, humanitarian programming. The
Director of the station is Mohamed Deeq Abdalla.
44
Somaliland
1. Bulsho TV www.bulshotv.net
Bulsho TV is a privately owned television station founded in 2009. The station has two media
outlets located in Burao and Hargeisa. Bulsho TV began broadcasting in Burao in 2009 and later
opened the Hargeisa branch in September 2011. Bulsho TV broadcasts to Somaliland from
terrestrial transmitters in both towns.
Is a community TV station that specializes in news, current affairs, public debates and education.
The station also broadcasts programmes that raise awareness of controversial social issues, such
as Female Genital Mutilation, HIV/AIDS and inter-clan disputes. The station has close links with
the Shaqodoon youth training and livelihoods programme of the US NGO Educational
Development Center (EDC).
2. Horn Cable TV 10815.00MHz/ 27500 www.hctv.tv
Horn Cable TV is a privately owned television station that was founded in 2003. The TV station’s
headquarters is in Hargeisa, Somaliland, but it also has an office/studio in Mogadishu, Nairobi
and London. Horn Cable TV covers whole parts of Somalia and broadcast 24/7 to Africa, Europe,
Asia and parts of Australia by satellite. The channel is also available as a live webstream on the
internet (wwwhctv.tv). Its programming includes news and current affairs, drama, music,
business, political debates and religious programmes. HCTV is more popular in Somaliland than
its two main competitors, Universal TV and Somali Channel and claims to have the largest staff
operating in the Horn of any Somali media outlet with an estimated 90 reporters on the ground
throughout Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Kenya. The TV station employs around 60 people (7
staff members in Mogadishu) and is a member of NUSOJ. It receives incomes from
advertisement. A reporter called Abdisalan Hiis, who was working for Horn Cable TV was
assassinated on 18th Dec. 2011 in Mogadishu.
Horn Cable TV is owned by a young businessman called Farhan Haji Ali; a Somali-American,
owner of the FAACO and who has been based in Hargeisa for the last 10 years. Jamal Ali Hussein,
the former presidential candidate of UCID (opposition political party) also has a share in the TV.
The Director of the Mogadishu branch is Hamdi Hussein.
HCTV is regarded as largely neutral, balanced and reliable, and is popular throughout Somalia,
though it is often accused of taking a pro-Somaliland approach.
3. Somaliland National TV (SLNTV) www.somalilandntv.com
Somaliland National TV is the official television station of the government of Somaliland. It was
founded in 2005 and is state-owned. The station is on air every evening for 6 hours; 18:00-00:00.
It is available as a terrestrial service in the city of Hargeisa, and by satellite everywhere else
(Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia) except in North America. The station carries news
(much of it about the president and his cabinet), entertainment, sports, and programmes on
humanitarian issues. It is widely regarded as generally following the line of the government. It
has a substantial staff of about 150, some of whom are experienced journalists. The Current
Director of the TV is Khadar Ali Gaas, a former journalist who was living in the UK.
45
4. Somaliland Space Channel
Somaliland Space Channel is a privately owned television station located in Hargeisa. The station
is on air 7 hours a day; 17:00-00:00. Somaliland Space Channel carries local news, drama, English
and Arabic films, and humanitarian awareness programmes compiled by local and international
NGOs. It is regarded as largely neutral. The managing Director is Muse Adam Qalinle.
3. Newspapers
The newspaper industry has suffered in the recent years with many printing organisations shutting
down in South/Central Somalia and Puntland. Low literacy rates, widespread poverty and the
disruption of transportation by conflict have always restricted newspaper readership to the educated
and relatively affluent elite in Somalia’s main cities. However, it is the rigorous control of the media
by Al Shabaab which has led most newspapers from South/Central Somalia to stop printing.
Somaliland is the only region with a dozen of printing outlets still operational and printed in Hargeisa
with small circulation titles (less than 1,000 copies per issue). The most popular ones – Haatuf,
Jamhuuriya and Geeska Afrika – are daily. Others publish two or three times per week or even
weekly.
Table 7: Number of print outlets in Somalia – per HQs location
LOCATION
NUMBER
(Newspaper HQs)
INTERNATIONAL
0
REGIONAL
0
SECTOR 1
5
SECTOR 2
0
SECTOR 3
0
SECTOR 4
0
CENTRAL SOMALIA
PUNTLAND
DISPUTED AREA
0
2
0
SOMALILAND
13
TOTAL
20
Table 8: Somali print outlets
LOCATION
PRINTING OUTLET
(per HQs)
SOUTH/CENTRAL
Hamar
SOMALIA
Mogadishu Times
Xog Doon
Xog Ogaal
Xushmo
HQs
OWNERSHIP
DISTRIBUTION
Mogadishu
Private
Mogadishu
Mogadishu
Private
Private
Mogadishu
Mogadishu
Private
Private
Weekly (in
Mogadishu)
Daily
Daily
(Mogadishu)
Daily
Monthly
(Mogadishu)
WEBSITE
www.mogtimes.com
46
Ilays
Bosasso
Kaaha Bari
Dawan
Bosasso
Hargeisa
Geeska
The Horn
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Haatuf
The Somaliland
Times (in English)
Jamhuuriya
The Republican (in
English)
Ogaal News
Saxafi
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Private
Daily
Weekly
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Private
Daily
Weekly
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Private
Saxansaxo
Hargeisa
Private
Somaliland Today
Hargeisa
Private
Daily
Five times a
week
Three times a
week
Daily
Waaheen
Yool
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Private
Private
PUNTLAND
SOMALILAND
Private (ProGovernment)
Private
State
Mondays and
Thursday
Daily
Three times a
week
Daily
Weekly
Daily
Three times a
week
www.ilaysnews.net
www.geeska.net
www.hornnewspaper.
com
www.haatuf.net
www.somalilandtimes.
net
www.jamhuuriya.com
www.ogaalnews.net
www.ogaalnews.net
www.saxafinews.com
www.saxansaxopress.
com
www.somalilandtoday
.com
www.waaheen.com
3.1 Newspapers based in South/Central Somalia
1. Hamar Newspaper
This privately owned printing outlet is located in KM4 Hodan District in Mogadishu. It was
founded in 2003. It is a weekly newspaper and its publications consist of news, social affair and
humanitarian matters. The newspaper is distributed in Mogadishu. It has 5 employees (2
trainees) and is a member of NUSOJ. The owner of Hamar Newspaper is Mohamed Mohamud
Dhicisow.
2. Mogadishu Times www.mogtimes.com
Mogadishu Times is a privately owned printing outlet that was founded in November 1996. The
outlet is located in Shibis district, Sanaa’ Mogadishu. The newspaper is published daily and is
distributed in the Banadir region. It has 10 employees and a member of NUSOJ. It covers mostly
news, political and social affairs. The owner is called Habibo Ahmed Jimale (Bibto).
3. Xog Doon Newspaper
Xog Doon was founded in February 2012. It is a daily newspaper that is published in Mogadishu
six days a week from Saturday to Thursday. This newspaper’s publication consists of news, job
vacancies, sports, politics and current affairs. The printing outlet is situated in K4 area. It has 5-10
employees and is a member of NUSOJ. The owner and Director of Xog Doon newspaper is called
Abbas Ali Hasan. Mohamed Ahmed Siyad is the Chief Editor.
47
4. Xog Ogaal Newspaper
Xog Ogaal is a privately owned printing outlet that was founded in December 1993. It is based in
Bakara Market in Mogadishu. Xog Ogaal is published six days a week from Saturday to Thursday.
It focuses on news, features, job vacancies and sports. As one of the oldest printing outlet, Xog
Ogaal still maintains its old version of printing (A3 format). Is has 6 employees and is a member
of NUSOJ. Most of the newspaper’s expenses are dependent on job advertisement from local
and international NGOs. The owner is Mohamed Adan Guleed.
5. Xushmo Newspaper
Xushmo was founded in January 2010 and is a privately owned printing outlet located in Hodan
district in Mogadishu. This newspaper mainly focuses in humanitarian and human rights news.
The newspaper is published monthly and is distributed in Mogadishu. It has 10 employees (8
trainees/volunteers) and is a member of NUSOJ. The chairperson of the newspaper is called Eng.
Sidow Hassan Mahdi.
3.2 Newspapers based in Puntland and Somaliland
Puntland
1. Ilays Newspaper www.ilaysnews.net
Ilays newspaper is the largest newspaper in Puntland. It was founded in November 2008 and is
located in Bosasso. This privately owned outlet is published twice a week (Monday and Thursday)
and is distributed in Bosasso, Garowe and Galkacyo. It has 8 staff members across the three
cities. Ilays newspaper gets income from advertisement and a small contribution from the
Puntland government. Its publication includes news, features, stories and job vacancies. The
newspaper is member of NUSOJ and MAP. Its owner is Abdishakur Mire and the editor Omar Said
Mohamed.
2. Kaaha Bari Newspaper
Kaaha Bari was founded the 25 October 1991 and has its headquarters in Bosasso. Kaaha Bari is
the oldest printing outlet in Puntland. It still prints newspapers using A4 sized paper. The
newspaper is out six days a week, from Saturday to Thursday. It gets some income from
advertisement. Its publications include news, features, stories and job vacancies. It has 12 staffs
in Puntland’s three main cities and its owner and editor is called Prof Khalif Mohamed Barre.
Somaliland
1. Dawan
Dawan is Somaliland State’s newspaper and was founded in 1994 by the government of
Somaliland. It is a weekly newspaper that is published three times a week. It was previously
called Maandeeq before former Minister of Information, Abdillahi, now Ministry of Fisheries,
renamed the outlet Dawan in 2010 during his term. The Director of Dawan is Sheikh Faysal Ali.
48
2. Geeska Afrika www.geeska.net
Geeska Afrika is a printing outlet located in Central Hargeisa owned by a young journalist called
Mohammed Hussein “Rambow”. This printing outlet was founded in 2006 and is perceived to be
Somaliland’s second popular newspaper. It is a daily newspaper that is distributed six days a
week.
3. The Horn www.hornnewspaper.com
The Horn has a sister newspaper of Geeska Afrika. It is published once a week in English.
4. Haatuf www.haatuf.net
Haatuf newspaper was founded in 2000 and is located in Hargeisa. Haatuf is published six days a
week in Somali and is perceived to be pro-government. Although Haatuf is often perceived to be
close to the current (Kulmiye) government, others consider it to be unpredictable. The proprietor
of Haatuf Media Network is an SNM veteran called Yousuf Abdi Gabobe.
5. The Somaliland Times www.somalilandtimes.net
The Somaliland times a sister paper of Haatuf, published in English. Each weekly edition of The
Somaliland Times is also published on its website
6. Jamhuuriya www.jamhuuriya.com
Jamhuuriya, located in Hargeisa, is the oldest and most popular printing media outlet in
Somaliland. It was founded in 199226 and is an independent newspaper (perceived by some to be
a pro-government outlet). Jamhuuriya is published daily; six days a week in Somali. The owners
consist of Faisal Ali Sheikh the current Director General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Hassan
Said Yusuf the Secretary General of the Kulmiye (ruling) party.
7. The Republican
The Republican is a sister newspaper of Jamhuuriya. It is published every Saturday in English.
8. Ogaal News www.ogaalnews.net
Ogaal was founded in 2005 in Hargeisa by brothers and local journalists; Muse and Abdiweli
Farah Jambiir. The newspaper is considered to be fairly balanced and neutral. It is a daily
newspaper published in Somali.
9. Saxafi www.saxafinews.com
Saxafi is a newspaper based in Hargeisa and founded in 2012, it currently publishes five times a
week (Mondays-Saturday). Saxafi was founded by Haatuf newspapers former writers MohamedRashid, Mohumaed farah (SOLIA Secretary), Abdifatah Mohamoud Aideed and Abdifatah Dheg
Ahmed.
26
The first printed newspaper in Somaliland was created in 1991 and was called Codka Hargeisa. The outlet lasted for
almost a year. Jamhuuriya was the second.
49
10. Saxansaxo www.saxansaxopress.com
Saxansaxo newspaper was founded in 2007. It is a pro-government weekly outlet published in
Hargeisa, which comes out between three and four times a week. The newspaper is owned by
the former speaker of Somaliland Presidency and the current Vice Minister of Information and
Culture Mr. Abdillahi Mohamed Dahir “Cukuse”.
11. Somaliland Today www.somalilandtoday.com
The print version of Somaliland Today online outlet was launched recently (January 2013).
Somaliland today is a privately owned outlet. The owner is called Munir Ahmed Igal. He is a
former reporter of Hadhwanaag news who resided until recently in the UK. It is distributed daily
in Hargeisa and is widely considered to be a pro-government outlet.
12. Waaheen www.waaheen.com
Waaheen is a daily newspaper that was founded in 2007. This printing outlet is located in
Hargeisa and is published six days a week in Somali. Waaheen Media Group is a pro-opposition
daily that is very critical to the government. Waaheen is owned by Dr. Ahmed Hussein Issa, the
former foreign secretary of Kulmiye party and challenger of Silanyo during the last the
presidential race. The editor is Mohamud Abdi Jama “Huuto”. Waaheen has a popular online
radio service with links to BBC and VOA Somali service programmes on its website.
13. Yool
Yool is a pro-opposition newspaper which was launched in 2008 and comes out in Hargeisa
three times a week. It is owned by former editor of Jamhuuriya, Mohamed Abdi Urad.
4. Websites
This section lists the main Somali online outlets, with an asterisk (*) marking the most used and
relevant websites. Though many of the outlets have their audience in specific regions of Somalia, the
location of the audience cannot be assumed from these categories, as the audience is often wider.
For example, some of the outlets that had the name of a specific region or town became very
popular and gained an audience beyond that geographical location, both within Somalia and beyond
(Hiiraan and All Gedo Online are particularly good examples of this). This was often facilitated by the
unique ability of the Internet to reach a geographically diverse audience. Many of the websites (both
those started by diaspora Somalis like Amin Arts as well as those started inside Somalia like Horn
Cable TV), in fact, cater to a diaspora audience scattered across countries or even continents, often
influencing their choice of content.
There are hundreds of Somali news websites. Although most of the websites can be unreliable at
times, there are however some honourable exceptions such as www.hiraan.com, www.shabelle.net
and others. It should also be noted that many of the websites listed below are many of which are
tied to Radio stations and complement the news from the radio stations with news from
international news agencies, which they translate in Somali and thus many websites have similar
news items. Others have their own network of reporters. Most of the internet sites are in Somali
although they have a limited number of pages in English.
50
Some of the higher quality sites are linked to Somalia’s main radio, television and print organisations
(they usually contain podcasts or live streaming). International news websites in Somali are also
popular. The BBC Somali Service website www.bbc.co.uk/somali attracts more visitors than most
other BBC foreign language websites, even though the population of Somalia and the Somali
diaspora is relatively small.
One reason why Somali online media has developed so fast is that the internet has served as a vital
bridge for bringing together members of the diaspora with people living in Somalia. They read each
other’s websites and this helps them to understand each other’s problems and points of view.
The internet within Somalia is still limited however it is growing and it is envisioned that it will have a
greater impact in the future. Officially, internet penetration still stands at just 1.14% of the
population (on par with Afghanistan) in Somalia. However it has increased dramatically over the last
year(s) and demand in Mogadishu is growing rapidly. A report by Somali Telecommunication
Association, in 2006, stated that the country had more than 234 cyber cafes, growing at a rate of
15.6% per year. The number in Mogadishu today is believed to be much higher.27 Access to the
internet just like television is primarily rooted in urban areas. AU/UN IST November 2012 polling
results shows that 41% of the people interviewed in Mogadishu28 claimed to have used the internet
over the past week (34% the day before and 7% in the last 7 days).
The number of internet coffee-shops has been exponential. Facebook has taken off in Mogadishu
since Al-Shabaab fled the city. Arguably, Facebook allows Somalia's youth to express their opinions
freely, without being afraid. New accounts have grown by more than 25% in the period from
September 2012 to February 2013. There are now more Facebook users than estimated internet
users in Somalia, thanks to mobile phones and computer sharing. The internet traffic measurement
website www.socialbakers.com recorded just over 34,000 Facebook users in Somalia in November
2011. By February 2013 there were now 112,460 Facebook users in Somalia, of whom half are under
24 years old and 74% are male.
Web based social mobilization is a growing trend and political factions within Somalia make use of
the internet to propagate their ideologies. There are numerous Somali online chat rooms, where
fierce political debates are held, often involving people living in many different countries. Villa
Somalia (where the President and Government offices of are located) launched its own a facebook,
twitter and tumblr accounts where Villa Somalia posts press statements. The social media networks
also provide a platform for the government to report its measure and decisions directly to the public.
Global Internet Company, founded in 2003 by a consortium of Somalia's leading telecom companies
including Hormuud and NationLink, provides dial-up, DSL and some point-to-point wireless. Dial-up is
the cheapest option, at around $30 (£18) a month per computer, but is very slow – less than 56kbs –
and highly oversubscribed. Direct satellite subscriptions cost as much as USD$3,000 per month for
one-megabyte connections, and can be quite unreliable. Somalia Wireless, Mogadishu's newest
wireless internet provider, was launched in April 2012 and hopes to find the middle ground in
Mogadishu market, by offering both pooled (shared) and dedicated connections. The next step after
wireless broadband will be high-speed internet with the connection fibre optic cables.
27
28
BBC, Somalia's ambitions online could bring Mogadishu to the world, by Jonathan Kalan, 23 October 2012
Sample of 1000 people interviewed in November 2012 in 15 of the 16 Mogadishu districts.
51
4.1 List of main Somali online media outlets
1. www.aminarts.com*
This website is run by the popular Somali cartoonist Amin Amir (based in Canada). The website
attracts a huge number of visitors. Its entertaining cartoons are posted daily and touch on different
issues on politics events in Somalia, social affair as well as anti-corruption campaigns. The website
generally has a pan-Somali nationalist tone. This website is available in Somali.
Contact: [email protected]
2. allahlusunna.com
All-Ahlu Sunna News Agency is the official website used by ASWJ, an Islamic movement in Somalia
whose religious ideology is based on the traditional Sufism in Somalia. The movement uses this
outlet to broadcast the operations, ideology and teachings of the movement, which now controls a
number of regions in South and Central Somalia. Their news reporting is dominated by a number of
issues including: reports on Sufi religious rituals within and outside Somalia; positive coverage of the
SFG, Ethiopia and AMISOM; and consistent coverage of events in Puntland and Galmudug. The
website is available in Somali.
3. www.allsbc.com
All SBC website is part of the Somali broadcasting Corporation SBC (which includes SBC radio). The
website is considered as fairly serious and reliable. It is available in Somali and in English. Based in
Bosasso, it provides extensive coverage of news stories in Puntland and other parts of Somalia.
4. www.allgedo.com*
All Gedo Online is a popular Somali news outlet, which covers news in South/Central Somalia. As the
name suggests, the site is affiliated with the Gedo region in Southern Somalia. The site gives its
readers the chance to comment on articles and as an indication of the wide readership the site
attracts, most of the site’s news posts are subject to considerable discussions among the readers.
The website uses both English and Somali in its reporting, though the latter is the main medium of
communication. Contact: [email protected] /[email protected]
5. http://alshahid.net
Alshahid is a media network that covers news in the Horn of Africa in three languages – Somali,
English and Arabic, though primarily in Somali. The site is owned and managed by a member of the
Somali diaspora in the UK who intended it as a source for “non-partisan news coverage” on Somalia
and the Horn, though it is not frequently updated.
6. http://azaania.org
Azaania.org is a website presenting news about South Somalia. The website is available in Somali and
English.
7. www.balanbal.net
Balanbal is a news outlet operated from Galgudud, whose major audience and news coverage is
focused on Southern Somalia. In addition to news, the site provides a variety of information and
entertainment. The site posts documentary videos, most of them about the Somali government
before the collapse and civil war. It also gives links to other Somali news outlets, including
international, and enables readers to comment on its reporting.
52
8. www.baydhabo.com
Baydhabo is a media outlet, mainly in Somali, and its name refers to the capital city of Bay region.
The site also uses the Maay Maay language, which is a dialect of Somali prevalent in that area. The
site covers news in Somalia and provides quite extensive coverage of events in Somaliland. In
addition to news, the content of the site also includes music (both in Somali and Hindi), movies and
comedy. The site uses a non-formal style of reporting and most of its reports are briefly summarised.
9. www.bar-kulan.com
This website is among the reliable Somali news websites. It is affiliated to Radio Bar-Kulan and
focuses on news from South Somalia, but with coverage of the entire Horn. The website is available
in Somali with an English language news page.
10. www.bartamaha.com
This website is well known by its Somali diaspora viewers. It is available both in English and Somali.
11. www.bbc.co.uk/somali*
The BBC Somali Service website attracts more visitors than most other BBC foreign language
websites. The BBC Somali Service is widely regarded as fairly neutral. The website is available in
Somali.
12. www.calanka.com
This news website is considered fairly trustworthy. It mainly covers events in South Central Somalia.
This website is available in Somali.
13. www.codka.org
'Codka' is an association of Danish-Somalis for Danish Somalis. Their goal is to provide a platform for
the Somali voices and convey their forgotten stories to the general public.
14. www.codkamudug.com
This website is related to Radio Codka Mudug in Galka'ayo (Galmudug region). News coverage is
throughout Somalia, though it gives heavy emphasis on coverage of Galmudug State. In addition to
news, the site gives information about health and education in these it areas. It is available in Somali
with a few English articles.
15. www.dayniilecom.com
The website is available in both Somali and in English.
16. www.gedoonline.com
This website covers events in Gedo, the Jubbas and Galgudud regions of Somalia. It is run by
journalists based in Kenya. The website is available in Somali with latest news in English as well.
17. www.hiiraan.com
Hiiraan website is one of the most well-regarded Somali news online outlet. It was created in 1999 by
a member of Somali diaspora. The owner of the website, Ahmed Haji Gure, started it with the aim of
helping Somali people around the world stay connected among themselves and to home. Since its
establishment, the site has been broadcasting news in the Horn both in English and Somali, though
the latter is its main medium of communication. It publishes articles on a wide range of topics
written by columnists, politicians and other eminent contributors, both Somalis and non-Somalis. The
website also has reporters in Somaliland, Puntland, and various regions in South and Central Somalia.
53
18. www.hobyonet.com
Hobyo Net is a Somali news outlet based in Galka'ayo, Southern Somalia with special focus on the
regions controlled by Galmudug State. It was related to Radio Hobyo but now runs separately. It is
available in Somali with links to English articles.
19. www.ishabaydhaba.com
This website mainly focuses on Bay and Bakool regions of Southern Somalia. The website is available
in Somali with a few news articles in English
20. www.jowhar.com
This popular website covers news about the whole of Somalia. It was affiliated to former Radio
Jowhar (in Jowhar) prior to Al Shabab taking over the radio station. The website is available in both
Somali and English.
21. www.kismaayolive.com
This is a relatively new website and always covers news on Kismayo. The website is available in
Somali.
22. kismaayonews.com
This website is considered fairly trustworthy. It focuses on news on Lower Jubba and is available in
both Somali and English.
23. kismaayo24.com
This website covers Kismayo and Ras Kamboni-related issues.
24. www.kulmiyenews.com
This website is affiliated to Radio Kulmiye in Mogadishu. The website is available in both Somali and
English.
25. www.mareeg.com
This news website is considered fairly trustworthy and is available in both Somali and English.
26. www.markacadeey.com
This website is considered fairly reliable. The website is available in both Somali and English.
27. www.midnimo.com
The website is considered to be fairly impartial and reliable. This website is available in both Somali
and English.
28. www.mustaqbalradio.com
The website features both English and Somali news.
29. newsfromsomalia.wordpress.com
30. http://qalin.net
This new website is available both in English and in Somali.
31. www.qaranimo.com
This website is considered to be fairly unbiased and reliable. The website is available in Somali with a
few English articles.
54
32. www.qurbejoog.com
Qurbe Joog News, or Somali Diaspora News, broadcasts news on the Horn of African and Somali
communities’ world both in English and Somali. Its directors are based in North America.
33. www.radiobanadir.com
The website is affiliated to Radio Banadir. This website is available in Somali.
34. www.radiodaljir.com
This website is affiliated with Radio Daljir and it is not so popular but it is one of most trusty-worthy
outlets in Puntland. The website is available in Somali. It is owned by Jama Abshir Walde, American
educated, who has now moved to Somalia.
35. www.radiomuqdisho.net
This website is run by Radio Mogadishu, the official radio station of the Somali Government.
Although it clearly is a pro-Government website which generally relays the government's views on
most issues, it does carry some reliable information and is a respected institution. The website is well
updated and covers news related to Somalia not only in Mogadishu or Somalia but also from around
the world. The site gives access to online streams of Radio Mogadishu and Somali National
Television, both state-run media outlets. It also posts a variety of religious and entertainment media.
The website is available in Somali.
36. www.radioogaal.com
This website is based in Canada and is available in both Somali and English.
37. www.radioergo.org
This website is related to Radio Ergo, which is a humanitarian news source based in Nairobi, Kenya
and is funded by the United Nations. This website is available in Somali.
38. www.radiofreesomalia.com
This website is based in Toronto, Canada. The website is available in both Somali and English.
39. www.raxanreeb.com
Raxanreeb Online is the online portal of RBC Radio in Mogadishu. It is an investigative website owned
by both Diaspora and Somali-based journalists. The site and the radio station cover news mainly on
politics in South Central Somalia, Puntland and Somaliland (and the Horn of Africa at large). One can
also find information regarding health, education, music and more. The website has reporters in
South Somalia, Puntland and Somaliland. The website is available in both Somali and English. It’s
owned by Farah Ato a Somali diaspora living in the US.
40. www.risaala.net
The website is affiliated to Radio Risaala. It is available in Somali and in English.
41. www.salaamanews.com
This newly launched website is owned by Somali Diaspora group in U.S and mainly focuses on
Somalia. It is not popular but has some reliable information. The website is available in Somali
42. www.shabelle.net
This website is run by Shabelle Media Network. The website is available in both Somali and English.
55
43. www.somalidiasporanews.com
This website is available in both Somali and English.
44. http://somalicurrent.com/
Somalicurrent.com is an independent, bilingual news site that covers both Somali and international
news, blogs and politics. Somali current has headquarters in Somalia as well as the US.
45. http://somalianewsroom.com
Somalia Newsroom is a well-informed news blog that was created on April 15, 2012 and is managed
by Cleophus (Tres) Thomas, a PdD student and Africa Analyst at a consulting firm in Washington, D.C.
focusing on issues in the Horn of Africa. Contact: [email protected]
46. www.somalitalk.com
Somali talk was created in 1999 in Mogadishu. The website focuses on reports about Somalia
whether it is a political, environmental or humanitarian perspective. The website is available in
Somali. It has 10 employees and is a member of NUSOJ. It is owned by Eng. Mohamed Ali. Contact:
[email protected] / +252615532494
47. www.somaliradio.dk
The website is based in Copenhagen,Denmark. It is available in Somali.
48. www.somaliupdate.com*
This good quality new website is available in Somali and in English.
49. www.somaliweyn.com
It is available in Somali with a few English articles.
50. sunatimes.com
Suna Times is a Somali News website making some investigative reports related to the security issues
and terrorism in Somalia. This online outlet, created in 2009, does not always present reliable
information. The website is available in English. It has 22 employees and is part of Associated Somali
Journalists (ASOJ). The editor of this website Ahmed Abdullahi Fanah was beheaded by Alshabab on
September 26, 2012 after they held him hostage for days. Contact: [email protected]
51. sverigesradio.se/sida/default.aspx?programid=2172
Sveriges Radio Somali portal. The website is based in Sweden.
52. www.voasomali.com
The VOA Somalia website is operated from Washington DC. It is one the most popular website in the
diaspora world together with the BBC Somali website. This website is available in Somali.
53. www.waagacusub.com
Waaga Cusub Media is a news outlet, covering news in Somalia and the Horn of Africa. The site also
posts others content, such as music, photos, videos of cultural and social events and interviews with
individuals. The site is owned by Dahir Allasow, who lives in Europe and allegedly escaped Somalia
after receiving death threats from Al Shabaab.
The site severely criticizes Al Shabaab and its operations in Somalia. In an interview the Chief Editor
of the site gave to Somali Radio, an online radio based in North America, he claimed that his mission
is to provide the Somali community with an alternative to the mainstream news aired by most of the
news outlets. He also argues that his mission is investigative reporting, with the aim of exposing the
56
corruption, clanism and undercover alliances that influence current Somali political dynamics. Unlike
many other Somali news outlets, the site extensively uses clan names to refer to different
communities in Somalia.
Although fairly popular, this website does not always present reliable information. It focuses on
Somaliland and South Central Somalia. The website is available in Somali with a few English articles
mostly from contributors.
54. www.wardheernews.com
This website, which has a heavy emphasis on Somali culture and literature, is available in both Somali
and English.
55. www.warqaad.com
This website is owned by Abdullahi Ahmed Nur, Star FM reporter in Nairobi. The website was
launched two years ago and has attracted an increasing audience among Somalis, both because of its
impartiality and the fact that it regularly provides breaking news. It is available only in Somali.
4.2 Websites with a particular focus on Puntland
1. www.allpuntland.com
This website is amongst the most visited news website in Puntland. It has been active for more than
ten years. It is considered impartial but sometimes criticized for failing to report key news stories
about Puntland. Although the outlet appears to be pro-Puntland government – sometimes relaying
information directly from the Puntland Ministry of Information – there is no indication on the
website whether it is officially affiliated with the government or not. The website is available in both
Somali and English.
2. www.allradiogaalkacyo.com
This website is affiliated with Radio Gaalkacyo which is a community owned-radio in Gaalkacyo which
mainly focuses on Mudug region as well as Puntland area. This website is available in Somali.
3. www.galgalanews.com
This is website mainly focuses on Puntland politics. The website is available in both Somali and
English.
4. www.garoweonline.com
Created in 2004 to support Radio Garowe, the site operates both in English and Somali and offers
more English-language articles than similar sites. It is popular among the Puntland diaspora. The
website is run by the son of Puntland President Mohamed Faroole. Visitors to the site can listen
directly to Radio Garowe on the website.
5. www.halgan.net
This is a partisan website that is owned by a religious group in Puntland and some in Diaspora. It
covers news on the region. The website is available in Somali.
6. www.horseedmedia.com
This website is part of the media network Horseed Media (established by members of the diaspora in
Netherlands) which also own Radio Horseed in Bossasso. The website is regularly updated and
extensively covers news in Puntland, though it also provides significant coverage of events in South
Somalia. It is widely considered to be a trustworthy source of news in Puntland. The websites has a
network of reporters in the region. It is available in both Somali and English.
57
7. www.puntlandpost.com
This website is well known, but is commonly regarded as unreliable. The website is available in
Somali with a few English articles.
8. www.allsbc.com
This news website is linked to the SBC radio and TV group. It is considered to be quite reliable and
up-to-date. It focuses mainly on Puntland. The website is available in Somali.
9. www.wacaal.com
This website is new and mainly covers news on Puntland. It is fairly accurate but not very popular.
The website is available in both Somali and English.
4.3 Websites with a particular focus on Somaliland
1. www.berberanews.com
The website features news from Sahir region of Somaliland, and the regional capital Berbera, which is
the territory’s main port. It is available in both Somali and English
2. www.booramaonline.com
Most of the website’s content is on Borama (Capital of Awdal Region, Somaliland), though it does
also cover news from the rest of Somaliland and Somalia. The website’s Chief Editor is based in
Australia, so the site relies on its network of local reporters and news cited from other media outlets
as sources of information.
3. www.boramanews.com
The website is owned by diaspora individuals from the Awdal region. The website mostly discusses
Awdal issues and its audience are mainly citizens from Awdal region.
4. www.caynabanews.com
This website represents the interests of the Saraar region of Southeastern Somaliland. Its capital is
the town of Ainabo and the website is available in both Somali and English.
5. www.gabiley.net
Gabiley Net is owned by diaspora Somalis from the Gabiley city of Somaliland (west of the capital
Hargeisa) and it covers news primarily from around Gabiley and in greater Somaliland. It appears to
be pro-opposition and has a strong pro-Somaliland independence stance. The website is available in
Somali. Contact: Mustafe Abdikarim +2524422334 [email protected]
6. www.hadhwanaagnews.com
This Somaliland website is sometimes pro-government and is only available in Somali.
7. www.halbeegnews.com
This website supports the Somaliland opposition and is available in Somali with a few English articles.
8. www.harowo.com
This website represents the Awdal region in western Somaliland and its capital Boroma. The website
is available in Somali however top news articles are also written in English.
58
9. www.lughaya.com
This news website represents the Awdal region in western Somaliland and its capital Boroma. The
website is available in Somali with a few English articles.
10. www.qarannews.com
Qaran News began operating in December 2007. The majority of its news coverage is about
Somaliland issues or related current affairs, and Somaliland diaspora members are frequent
contributors. This website is very critical to the government and is considered to be pro-UDUB party.
It clearly opposes the current Somaliland government in its reporting. The website is available in both
Somali and English. Contact: [email protected]
11. www.oodweynenewss.com
This website represents the Odweyne area of the Togdheer region of Somaliland, east of Hargeisa. It
is owned by Abdishakur Heersare, a local journalist and writer. The website is available in both
Somali and English. Contact: Abdishakur Heersare [email protected]
12. www.ramaasnews.com
This Somaliland news website is considered to be largely neutral. The website is available in Somali
with a few English articles.
13. www.somaliland.org
This is a pro-Somaliland government site and it available in both Somali and English.
14. www.somalilandfuture.com
This is a pro-Somaliland government site. The website is available in both Somali and English.
15. www.somalilandpatriots.com
This site is available in both Somali and English and promotes the cause of Somaliland’s
independence. It has news and audio links to programmes of the BBC and VOA Somali services.
16. www.somalilandpost.net
Somalilandpost is a news Portal based in Hargeysa, Somaliland. It covers news in Somali and some
English articles. It was founded in 2011 as a privately owned news and information outlet.
17. www.somalilandpress.com
This Somaliland news site is considered to be largely neutral. It is available in both Somali and English
18. www.somalilandsun.com
19. somalilandtoday.com
Somaliland Today is a privately owned news website, online since 2011. It is available in Somali.
20. www.togaherer.com
This Somaliland news website is considered to be largely neutral although at times it appears to be
pro-UCID party. The website is available in both Somali and English.
Contact: [email protected], [email protected]
21. www.togdheernews.com
59
Togdheer News is a news site based in Burao, which is the second biggest town in Somaliland. The
site is pro-Somaliland independence and covers news from all regions of Somaliland, Puntland and
South/Central Somalia. Its coverage is also characterized by opposition towards SSC and Khaatumo
State. The website is available in Somali with a few English articles.
4.4 Websites with a particular focus on disputed area (Khatumo)
1. www.afbakayle.com
This website mainly promotes Khaatumo fighters in Sool region which is disputed by Somaliland and
Khatumo state. The website is available in Somali.
2. www.boocameonline.com
This website is run by diaspora people but supports Khaatumo state. The website is available in both
Somali and English.
3. www.khaatumo.com
This website speaks on behalf of Khaatumo state. The website is available in Somali.
4. http://lasanod.com
Las’anod takes its name from the capital of the Sool region, Las’anod, a town that is claimed by both
Somaliland and Puntland. The clan from that area also lives in parts of the Sanaag and Togdheer
regions that make up Khaatumo State, which claims to be independent from both Somaliland and
Puntland. The site claims to be 'the most trusted SSC website', SSC standing for Sool, Sanaag and
Cayn territory. The site's reporting focuses on promoting Khaatumo State and SSC, criticizing
Somaliland and to a lesser extend Puntland, with little to no coverage of events outside the region.
5. www.radiowidhwidh.com
This site operates from the Sool region, whose ownership is disputed by Somaliland and Puntland.
The website is available in both Somali and English.
4.5 Al Shabaab websites
1. www.amiirnuur.com
2. www.al-qimmah.net
3. www.shahaada.net
Arabic-language Shahada News Agency has established collaboration with Somali Memo in April
2013. Shahada News Agency, which has posted its news stories on social networks, such as Facebook
and Twitter over the past months, now has a website; Shahaada.net. Shahada News Agency editor
Umar Zaki and Somali Memo editor Ridwan Yare jointly announced the collaboration between the
two media outlets. Somali Memo's Arabic section will carry news stories by Shahada News Agency.
4. www.calamada.com
This website, available in Somali, is considered as the official webpage for radio Andalus.
60
5. www.radioalfurqaan.com
The website is available in Somali. It has very complex network of correspondents and contacts
around the world. In many of its programmes, the participants claim to be calling from many
countries around the world, including Europe and North America. The site also claims to have
correspondents in many parts of East Africa including Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
6. www.somalimemo.net
The website is available in Somali, Arabic, and Swahili.
7. www.somalimidnimo.com
This website is popular with al Shabab propaganda and is updated by some people in US. The website
is available in Somali.

IST Briefing Note 007 Purpose IST Briefing Notes are intended to

Transcription

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