Every year on December 10, the world marks Human Rights Day—a moment to reaffirm the universal rights and freedoms owed to every human being. For the Somali Media Women Association (SOMWA), this day is more than a commemoration; it is a reminder of the daily struggle women journalists face and the collective efforts needed to ensure justice, equality, and freedom of expression in Somalia.
Championing Women’s Rights in Media
Since its establishment, SOMWA has been at the forefront of promoting the rights and safety of Somali women journalists. Through advocacy, training, and community engagement, SOMWA continues to push for a media sector where women can work bravely, ethically, and without discrimination.
In the past years, SOMWA has made significant contributions to human rights in Somalia, including:
- Promoting Safety and Protection for Women Journalists
SOMWA has consistently documented cases of harassment, threats, and violence against women in media, advocating for accountability and stronger protection mechanisms.
Recent campaigns have raised awareness about gender-based violence in newsrooms and called for employers, government institutions, and civil society to prioritise journalists’ safety.
- Advancing Gender-Sensitive and Ethical Journalism
Through its flagship programmes, SOMWA has trained dozens of journalists on ethical reporting, conflict-sensitive coverage, and gender-responsive storytelling.
In 2024–2025, SOMWA expanded its Gender-Sensitive Journalism Toolkit, delivered trainings in regions such as Baidoa, and worked with local media houses to integrate gender perspectives into daily reporting.
- Advocating for Women’s Representation and Leadership
SOMWA continues to champion the 30% women’s political participation quota, pushing for women’s voices to be reflected not just in media content but also in decision-making spaces.
Through public dialogues, radio talk shows, and media campaigns, SOMWA has helped amplify women leaders, activists, and young journalists who are shaping Somalia’s future.
- Supporting Women Journalists in Crisis
During moments of political instability, security threats, or personal danger, SOMWA has stood as a lifeline for women journalists.
SOMWA has provided:
- Rapid safety support
- Emergency guidance
These interventions have allowed women journalists to continue their work with courage and dignity.
A Message From SOMWA’s Deputy Executive Director
Sowda Hesein, SOMWA’s Deputy Executive Director, emphasised the importance of protecting women journalists as a national priority:
“Human rights begin with the right to speak freely and safely. For Somali women journalists, this is still a daily struggle. On this Human Rights Day, we remind everyone that empowering women in media is not just about equality—it is about ensuring a more just, informed, and peaceful society. SOMWA will continue to stand with every woman journalist who chooses courage over silence.”
A Call to Action on Human Rights Day
Despite the progress, numerous challenges persist. Women journalists continue to face harassment, digital abuse, and limited access to leadership roles. Somalia’s media landscape, though evolving, still struggles with entrenched gender biases.
On this Human Rights Day, SOMWA renews its commitment to:
- Defending the rights of women journalists
- Promoting free, ethical, and gender-sensitive media
- Ensuring women’s voices are heard and respected
- Building a safer and more inclusive environment for all media practitioners
Human Rights Are Universal
Human rights are not selective, and they are not optional. They belong to all of us—women, men, journalists, and citizens alike.
As SOMWA continues its mission, we call on government institutions, media organisations, development partners, and the public to stand up for woman journalists and uphold the values of justice, equality, and freedom of expression.
