Mobile Aggregation Service (SMS)

Challenge

For many years independent radio stations outlawed by the Somaliland government. This has caused problems in getting independent information out to the public.

Project Goals

The aim of the project is for Shaqodoon to create an innovative and suitable alternative to information sharing to the public integrating Radio and Telecom phone. One way to get independent information to Somaliland citizens is through the use of mobile phones. With their discreet ability to connect people with information when needed, mobile phones have become the cheap, quick and safe communication tool of choice for citizens across Somalia and a powerful means to educate empower and engage with Somalis at large including both rural and urban communities.

Key Activities

The activity of the project is to secure reserved charged short code from the three major telecoms in Somalia/land (Telesom, Golis and Hormuud) on behalf of Free Press Unlimited. Establish the connectivity between the secured short codes and the TrackFM platform. Provide technical assistance during the project period. Provide a specified monthly billing invoice of the number of used sms's and take care of all administrative handling towards the providers.

Impact

Free press is using Shaqodoon’s SMS gateways to get 19 local radio stations listeners to react to the different programs that are being aired. The service has it its own unique Short code reversed charged making free for participants to take part in the radio programs. So far over 100,000 SMS feedback has been sent in the last 12 months.

More Details

Location: Somalia

Start Date - End Date: 4/7/2014 to 8/14/2021

Donor(s): Free Press Unlimited