In Somalia, diversity runs deep: from the Somali majority to minority groups like the Bantu, Bajuni, and Bravanese. Yet, this diversity often exists in silence. For decades, minority communities have faced discrimination, limited political representation, and barriers to essential services. Many Somalis from these groups live with a painful choice to identify openly and face stigma, or to hide their heritage to survive.
In a bid to catalyze a conversation that could change this narrative, Africa’s Voices,launched a unique, citizen-driven dialogue project using interactive radio and social media. Over six weeks, thousands of Somalis tuned in to share their views on inclusion, discrimination, and what a more fair and just fairer Somalia could look like.
Amplifying citizen voices at scale
The initiative reached an estimated 149,000 listeners, engaging 8,975 participants from all corners of Somalia from Banadir to Puntland, Jubaland, and Galmudug. More than half of those who took part identified as internally displaced persons (IDPs), and nearly a third as persons with disabilities. Women and youth also featured prominently, with women making up 55% of participants and the youth, those identifying as under 35 years, comprising 65%.
Participants spoke 26 different languages, including Somali, Maimai, Barawani, and Bajuni, a reminder of the country’s linguistic and cultural richness. Yet, many minorities hesitated to self-identify due to fear of discrimination, underscoring how deep the scars of exclusion still run.
What Somalis are saying
Across six weeks of open conversation, citizens raised issues that cut to the heart of Somalia’s social fabric.
The most common concern was discrimination, mentioned by more than 15% of participants. Respondents shared stories of exclusion in education, employment, and access to justice. Some recounted social and emotional abuse, ranging from verbal attacks to gender-based violence.
Lack of political agency was another major theme. Many argued that the 4.5 clan-based power–sharing system has entrenched inequality by limiting minority representation in leadership. “Without political power,” one young woman wrote, “we cannot change the systems that oppress us.”
Participants also spoke about economic exclusion — from unemployment to lack of access to microcredit or vocational training — as well as limited access to basic services like food, water, and healthcare. For displaced communities, these challenges are magnified.
Interestingly, some respondents denied that minorities exist in Somalia, arguing that “all Somalis are the same.” While this view reveals a hope for unity, it also points to a troubling denial of minority struggles. A few even expressed hostility, highlighting how urgent it is to challenge harmful narratives and promote empathy.
Turning dialogue into action
Despite the difficult conversations, the project revealed a strong will for change. Participants proposed practical solutions — from awareness campaigns and economic empowerment to political reform and cultural preservation.
Many called for abolishing the 4.5 system in favor of “one person, one vote,” and for stronger justice systems that protect minorities from violence and systemic discrimination. Others emphasized the need to preserve minority languages and traditions, integrating them into schools and public life.
Youth voices stood out, especially on issues of culture and integration. They called for using social media to celebrate heritage and for intergenerational learning between elders and youth. “Our languages must live on,” said one young participant from South West State. “They are part of who we are.”
Way forward
AV’s citizen-led dialogue approach shows how open, inclusive conversations can uncover truths that data alone cannot capture. By listening to ordinary citizens, especially those long excluded, policymakers, civil society, and donors can craft more responsive and just solutions.
The findings call for bold action:
Building a more inclusive Somalia begins with listening and acting on what citizens say. As this initiative shows, when people are given a voice, they don’t just share opinions — they shape pathways to peace, justice, and dignity for all.
Read the full Report Here.