On Air, On Track: Revolutionizing Youth Rehabilitation in Somaliland
Hargeisa, Somaliland – In a groundbreaking effort to transform the lives of marginalized youth, Shaqodoon Organization, in partnership with Radio Hargeisa, has launched a unique radio program that is reshaping the future for young inmates across Somaliland. This innovative initiative, part of the UNFPA Accelerated Socio-Economic Empowerment of Youth project, combines education and rehabilitation to provide a pathway to personal growth and reintegration for those in detention.
The program’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration, with key support from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and National Guidance. Their involvement has been crucial in driving this initiative forward, highlighting the importance of partnerships in creating sustainable change.
“Shaqodoon’s work in this initiative is commendable. We urge the organization to explore other youth engagement initiatives. The Ministry is open to discussing ways to further amplify the reach and impact of similar programs.
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This interactive radio program was designed with a clear mission: to address behavioral challenges, foster personal development, and promote societal reintegration for youth in detention. More than just a broadcast, it has become a lifeline, offering hope and guidance to those who need it most.
“Our aim is to provide these young people with the tools they need to rebuild their lives,” said Liban Mohamed, Senior Program Officer at Shaqodoon. “By reaching them through the medium of radio, we are able to engage them in a way that is both accessible and impactful, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
The Episodes
The program’s content is both diverse and dynamic, covering a wide range of topics essential for personal and social development:
Behavioral Rehabilitation: Episodes focus on addressing and transforming negative behaviors through storytelling and real-life scenarios.
Personal Growth: Inmates are introduced to skills that promote self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience—key factors for successful reintegration into society.
Educational Advancement: Literacy and numeracy are emphasized through engaging, interactive segments, making learning both practical and enjoyable.
Civic Engagement and Peacebuilding: Topics such as civic responsibilities and peacekeeping are explored to instill a sense of duty and community pride among the youth.
Cultural and National Identity: Programs on national history and values aim to foster a strong sense of identity and belonging, encouraging positive contributions to society upon release.
“The program’s significance and timely practicality have been evident in the swift and noticeable transformation among inmates. This comprehensive approach and engaging content have had a profound impact on rehabilitation. I strongly advocate for expanding the program’s scope, incorporating vocational training, and extending its duration to deepen its positive influence.”
To maximize its impact, the program was disseminated through a dual-channel approach. In detention centers, episodes were broadcast twice daily via interactive audio devices, ensuring consistent access for inmates. Simultaneously, Radio Hargeisa aired these episodes to the wider public, promoting societal understanding and reducing stigma around youth rehabilitation.
The interactive nature of the program, featuring expert-led discussions and relatable skits, provided a platform for inmates to reflect on their choices and envision a different future. “The combination of expert advice and relatable narratives made the content resonate deeply with us,” shared one young participant. “It’s helped me see things differently and believe that I can change.”
The program’s impact has extended far beyond the walls of detention centers. Inmates have reported significant improvements in their attitudes and behaviors, with many expressing newfound hope and motivation for their futures. Community feedback has been equally positive, with listeners praising the program’s ability to address critical societal issues in an engaging and accessible format.
Shaqodoon’s IVR feedback system enabled the broader community to voice their opinions, with many highlighting the relevance of topics such as substance abuse prevention and civic engagement. “This program has been incredibly timely,” said one community member. “It’s not just about helping those in detention—it’s about educating all of us on how we can build a better society.”
The Ministry of Information, Culture, and National Guidance has strongly endorsed the initiative, acknowledging its transformative impact. In a recommendation letter, the Ministry commended the program for its effectiveness in fostering positive change and suggested exploring similar models in other contexts to further extend its reach and influence.
Key figures such as the Commander of Kodbuur Detention Center have also noted the program’s significant benefits. “We’ve seen noticeable changes among the inmates,” he remarked. “This program goes beyond rehabilitation—it’s planting seeds for a better future. I strongly advocate for expanding its scope to include vocational training and extending its duration to deepen its impact.”
Through this innovative initiative, Shaqodoon and its partners have not only addressed behavioral issues but have also sown the seeds of hope and resilience. The program has proven that with the right support, even the most marginalized youth can find a path to a brighter future.
As Shaqodoon continues its efforts, we look forward to sharing more stories of transformation and progress. This program is just the beginning of what we hope will be a broader movement toward more inclusive and effective youth rehabilitation across Somaliland and beyond.