Xudur, Somalia – 16 June 2025 — The Somali Women Journalists Organization (SWJO), in partnership with UNESCO, successfully concluded a three-day training workshop in Xudur, Bakool region, aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists to mainstream gender and combat sexual harassment in Somali media.
Held from 14 to 16 June 2025, the workshop brought together 20 journalists, including reporters and correspondents from local media houses, for an intensive and participatory program. This marks the final phase of a five-region initiative that has also reached media professionals in Mogadishu, Kismaayo, Garowe, and Dhuusamareeb, reinforcing a nationwide effort to promote inclusive journalism and safer work environments.
Over the course of three days, participants explored:
- Principles and practices of gender mainstreaming in media
- Identification, prevention, and management of sexual harassment
- Creating safe, respectful, and inclusive media workplaces
- Journalists’ self-regulation techniques and ethical responsibility
- Leadership and advocacy strategies for gender equality in newsrooms
The workshop employed an interactive approach, combining expert-led discussions, group work, and real-life case analysis, allowing participants to reflect critically on their roles as agents of change in the media sector.
“Media has a powerful role to play in transforming social norms, and this training is part of our mission to ensure that transformation is both ethical and inclusive,” said Farhia Kheyre, Chairperson of SWJO. “With the support of UNESCO, we’ve reached five key regions and equipped over 100 journalists with the tools to challenge bias and champion equity.”
Participants in Xudur expressed a renewed commitment to promoting balanced representation of women in content, improving workplace policies, and supporting one another in addressing harassment and discrimination.
SWJO extends its sincere appreciation to all participants, facilitators, and partners—especially UNESCO—for their unwavering support in making this national initiative a success.
