Wadaag “content sharing” programme implemented by SOMA
Wadaag is a content-sharing model, producing and syndicating weekly radio episodes that are simultaneously aired across more than 40 SOMA member radio stations.
Wadaag (meaning “sharing”) is a collaborative national radio initiative implemented by the Somali Media Association (SOMA), with strategic and financial support from the IMS Somalia programme. Launched in 2016, Wadaag was designed to promote social development, reconciliation and social cohesion by sharing credible, solutions-oriented stories across Somalia’s diverse regions and communities.
Each episode highlights community-driven stories focusing on health, education, governance, livelihoods, youth participation, women’s empowerment and irregular migration. Over time, Wadaag has grown into one of Somalia’s more established collaborative journalism initiatives, recognised by partner stations for its consistent editorial approach and commitment to balanced, ethical reporting. It amplifies local voices, connects communities from conflict-divided regions and contributes to improved public awareness, informed dialogue and citizen participation in social issues. The Wadaag production team has been trained and receives ongoing editorial mentoring from the experienced Radio Ergo team. IMS commissioned an independent researcher to evaluate the results of the content sharing programmes during 2024–2025.
The assessment study includes:
– A comprehensive overview of the structure, approaches and evolution of the Wadaag platform.
– Qualitative assessment of 26 thematic episodes and 78 field reports produced and broadcast during 2024-2025.
– Results from focus group discussions held with listeners in three regions.
– Quantitative data analysis from a listener survey.
– Stories of change shared by listeners and other stakeholders.
– Impact analysis, key achievements and good practices.
– Recommendations for the future of the programme.
