Farmers get updates from radio broadcasts
Despite the revolutionary digital advancements in global communications, radio remains one of the most popular forms of media worldwide, including in Somalia. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is leveraging this trusted medium to help farmers increase production and cope with the country’s extreme weather conditions.
FAO’s radio training modules, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, cover a wide range of topics such as good agricultural practices, climate smart agriculture, and financial education. This approach is well-suited for Somalia, where internet penetration rates are low, especially in rural areas, and radio is the most important and effective communication channel.
FAO has produced and broadcast an average of 736 episodes per year, reaching approximately 21 radio stations across the country and providing valuable information on topics like water management and crop value addition. With more than 60 radio stations in Somalia, radio continues to be the fundamental communication channel in the country, making it an effective tool for reaching and educating farmers.
