Bilan, Somalia’s only all-female media house, celebrates its first birthday on Tuesday. Despite the dangers of reporting in Somalia, particularly as a woman, Bilan journalists are committed to shining a light on taboo subjects. For example, female drug addiction in Somalia is a growing problem that many were unwilling to discuss because it was considered shameful. It took months for journalists to persuade addicts to speak out, and even then, they were terrified of being identified. Despite threats from pharmacists who sell opioids, Bilan was able to report this problem, exposing the scale of the crisis.
However, reporting on such issues has also shown the caring and compassionate side of people. Many people have donated money to help those in need, and the Ministry of Health has provided support to those with HIV/AIDS. The work of Bilan has not been easy, with many Somalis considering journalism an unacceptable job for women. Despite the challenges, the Bilan team is determined to continue their work, telling both positive and negative stories, such as urban women who set up farms outside Mogadishu and a 10-year-old girl who teaches crafts to adults.
Bilan has big plans for its second year, including expanding into the regions and establishing a network of reporters across the country. Despite the dangers and threats faced by journalists in Somalia, Bilan’s success shows that an all-female media house can be established almost anywhere else in the world. The Bilan team has learned many skills in the past year, and their unique approach to journalism has gained praise from those who appreciate the differences from the work of male journalists.
