Issues Archive

Active Tags
Issues filters
Search
  • The Somali Wire 273
  • The Ethiopian Cable 30
  • The Horn Edition 31
Archive
Filter by tags
Search
  • The Somali Wire 273
  • The Ethiopian Cable 30
  • The Horn Edition 31
Archive
Filter by tags
  • Published February 15, 2022

    Radio has always been the heartbeat of communication in Somalia, blending perfectly with the country’s rich oral traditions and nomadic culture. From colonial-era broadcasts to the golden age under Siad Barre, radio has shaped Somali history, culture, and politics. Iconic stations such as Radio Mogadishu, BBC Somali Service, and VOA Somali Service have informed and connected millions across the Horn of Africa, while ideological outlets like Radio Andalus continue to influence communities. Affordable, portable, and accessible, radio remains the most trusted and widespread medium in Somalia, reaching even the most remote rural areas. One radio set often serves many listeners, making it a shared social experience. Over the decades, radio has been used for cultural preservation, political mobilization, and even international propaganda during the Cold War. In today’s digital age, FM and online streaming have given Somali radio a new life, attracting both older audiences and tech-savvy youth. Despite competition from television, social media, and online news, radio continues to hold its place as Somalia’s primary source of information, entertainment, and cultural storytelling. Discover how radio remains the most enduring and influential communication channel in Somali society.

Scroll