In some of Africa’s most challenging terrains, from rugged landscapes with treacherous roads to regions where conflict and poverty are daily realities, the Africa’s Voices (AV) team is committed to amplifying voices that too often go unheard. Working in areas like Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya and the rural, conflict-affected zones of Somalia, AV tackles difficult environments and social obstacles head-on. Their mission is not only to gather the perspectives of local citizens but also to challenge deep-seated social norms on issues like gender roles, health, and education, making a difference where it’s needed most.
In Kakuma and Somalia, accessing communities is no easy feat. The team often travels on unpaved roads that become impassable during the rainy season, crosses remote villages with minimal infrastructure, and navigates unpredictable security situations. These logistical challenges mean that AV’s work requires resilience, adaptability, and a deep-rooted commitment to the communities they serve. Despite these obstacles, the team finds creative ways to connect with local populations, using a combination of mobile technology, radio, and local partnerships to keep the channels to place citizens’ voices at the heart of decision making.
In these conservative regions, community dynamics are complex, and trust is paramount. The team’s approach starts with respect for local customs and traditions, engaging leaders, elders, and other respected community figures before starting any dialogue. By including local voices from the start, AV ensures that their work resonates authentically, creating a foundation of trust that allows citizens to share their stories openly. In Somalia, where tradition is highly valued, and in Kakuma, where diverse cultures intersect, this trust-building is crucial for discussions around sensitive topics.
Some topics are still seen as taboo in Kakuma and Somalia. Conversations around family planning, girls’ education, mental health, and even health rights are often hushed or ignored due to longstanding social norms. AV has created safe spaces to talk about these sensitive issues through anonymous SMS surveys, call-in radio shows, and community dialogues. The goal is to empower individuals, especially women and youth, to challenge restrictive norms by voicing their thoughts and discussing the potential for change. Through these discussions, AV provides community members with the opportunity to question norms and envision a future where they have more control over their own lives.
When traditional face-to-face engagement is difficult due to harsh landscapes or security concerns, technology offers a lifeline. Radio and SMS platforms allow AV to reach remote communities in Kakuma and Somalia, where internet access is limited, but mobile phones are common. Interactive radio programs invite listeners to call in or text their thoughts on issues, while SMS surveys give citizens a safe, private way to share their perspectives. These platforms help foster a two-way communication channel, providing a means for citizens to connect, share, and amplify their voices without needing to leave their villages or homes.
AV’s impact is often seen in the personal stories that emerge from their dialogues. In Kakuma, young women shared their struggle to pursue an education, despite societal pressures to marry early. In Somalia, fathers recounted their desire for better healthcare services for their family, challenging the notion that men should only prioritise financial duties. Each story highlights the aspirations, resilience, and perspectives of individuals who are reshaping traditional narratives. By sharing these stories with a wider audience, AV is bringing attention to the realities of these communities, inspiring a shift in perception among residents and policymakers alike.
AV doesn’t just gather voices—they ensure that those voices are heard by decision-makers and organisations that can drive change. Insights from Kakuma and Somalia are shared with NGOs, development partners, and policymakers, ensuring that the perspectives of these communities inform policies and humanitarian interventions. By putting these stories on a global platform, AV ensures that the struggles, desires, and hopes of people in remote areas are recognised, respected, and addressed on a larger scale.
Africa’s Voices Foundation’s journey is a testament to perseverance, cultural sensitivity, and a steadfast dedication to communities facing some of the continent’s most challenging conditions. By navigating difficult terrains, fostering trust, and challenging entrenched social norms, AV is giving citizens in Kakuma and Somalia a platform to share their stories and push for change. Through their efforts, AV is amplifying voices that would otherwise go unheard, driving both social and policy changes that reflect the needs and dreams of these resilient communities.
