In the Midst of Conflict, Free Media Forging Ahead: An Interview with Mohammed Barre Haji of Radio Danan

Exemplifying optimism under the most difficult of circumstances, Mohammed Barre Haji established Danan Broadcasting Network (DBN, or Radio Danan) earlier this year and began broadcasting in March in Mogadishu, where the Transitional Federal Government continues to struggle to establish itself in the face of clashing militias and ongoing challenges to its authority.  Radio Danan offers programming that strives to give a voice to ordinary Somalis who wish for peace and reconciliation.  “One of the main tasks of DBN Radio,” comments Mohammed Barre Haji, “is to effect reconciliation among the warring groups in Somalia and prepare an atmosphere for the several million IDPs and refugees to return to their homes.”  To accomplish this, Radio Danan airs news, radio debates, dramas and talk shows that are designed to highlight current problems confronting Somali society and consider the best possible means to address these problems and achieve peace, reconciliation and reconstruction.  Mohammed Barre Haji says that Radio Danan aims to “present awareness programs and dramas to heal the wounds of society and make them feel relieved.”  He continues, “The station was established to support peace, promote education and safeguard Somali culture by providing information impartially and by teaching society through radio programs.  DBN Radio was established for the public to present and exchange their ideas and views without fear or favor.”

Among Danan’s broadcasts are Dhamaadka Wadada (The End of the Road), which warns people of the perils of smuggling and trafficking.  “For those who endanger themselves to cross the large deserts and seas in search of a better life,” Mohammed Barre Haji says, “we tell them that they are traveling to end their life, and that they should instead remain to live in their homeland.”

Mudanaha Mustaqbalka, another of Danan’s most popular programs, highlights the important work performed by ordinary Somalis in rebuilding society and contributing to peace.  One program featured the men who repair Mogadishu’s war-ravaged roads, equipped only with shovels.  Through this program, Mohammed Barre Haji reports, “people come to DBN Radio and tell their experience to the rest of the society.”

Another program, Marqaatiga Nool (The Living Witness), teaches young people about how the country was built up before the civil war, while reminding the elderly of the calm and peacefulness of the past.  Through its programming, dramas, debates and public forums, Radio Danan seeks to engage citizens in returning their society to that peaceful vision.