Somali Editor for Radio Ergo

Radio Ergo (RE) is a unique service providing daily humanitarian information to the Somali public disseminated using shortwave broadcasts, FM rebroadcasts, and a website linked to social media. RE manages a network of more than 20 freelance correspondents across Somalia, providing material for the programming. The radio collaborates with NGOs and UN agencies on the development of content and advocacy messaging. The production centre is in Nairobi, where the studio is located and a small team of RE production staff and support personnel are based.

RE is a donor-funded project run by IMS Productions ApS, a locally registered affiliate of the Copenhagen-based media development organisation, International Media Support (www.mediasupport.org). The radio aims to strengthen access to critical information for Somalis to make better informed decisions on issues affecting lives and livelihoods; to provide a channel of communication between Somalis and the humanitarian community; and to support the strengthening of Somali media.

IMS Productions ApS is recruiting a Somali Editor for Radio Ergo based in Nairobi. The Somali Editor we are seeking will be a dynamic and accomplished journalist to head the production team and be responsible for RE’s Somali content, as well as being expected to play a leading role in shaping the project over the next two-years and beyond. S/he will ensure that programming meets the highest standards and serves informational needs of Somali communities, as well as bringing sound judgement on ways in which RE can remain relevant in a changing environment and serve as a positive influence on the growth of the Somali media.

Main responsibilities

• Planning daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly production schedules of Somali radio programming and ensuring the regular and timely output of Radio Ergo programmes on shortwave and FM and via other media platforms;


• Organising the Somali production team, including Nairobi-based producers and 20+ freelance correspondents across Somalia, assigning duties and allocating tasks and providing editorial guidance;


• Preparing and updating quarterly work plans in consultation with Programme Manager;


• Producing, commissioning and directing original programming in Somali as required, including taking a lead on programme innovation;


• Assisting in developing and maintaining efficient and effective M&E systems;


• Providing ideas and input for strategic planning processes;


• Providing input for donor proposals and reports;


• Coordinating activities with local Somali radio partners, other media, and other partners including NGOs/UN agencies, in consultation with Programme Manager;


• Planning and/or carrying out missions as required;


• Planning and facilitating training workshops for Somali journalists and radio partners;


• Representing Radio Ergo at partner meetings, conferences and seminars.

Skills and qualifications

• University degree at undergraduate level, as a minimum, with an MA being an advantage, in Journalism, Media and Communications, or related field;


• 5-10 years demonstrated experience in journalism in progressively senior positions;


• Excellent writing and communication skills in Somali and English;


• Good knowledge of the Somali media environment;


• Good understanding of humanitarian and development sectors;


• Proven leadership qualities;


• Ability to live and work in Kenya an advantage.

How to apply:

Applicants should send a full CV with a detailed covering letter outlining qualifications, experience and motivation for applying for this post and explaining what you will bring to Radio Ergo, addressed to the Programme Manager at louise@radioergo.org

Please provide contact details for three recent referees whom we may contact if you are short-listed. For further information about Radio Ergo please visit www.radioergo.org

Deadline for receipt of applications: Tuesday 31 March 2015

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.