Dhallaan Kaal

Using the Power of Media to Improve Infant Health and Nutrition

Topic: Maternal and Infant Health
Location: Somalia

Dhallaan Kaal: A family drama about the health challenges for mothers and infants.

In a nation experiencing conflict, famine, and displacement, Dhallaan Kaal, malnutrition disproportionately affects children under two and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Launched in 2023, Dhallaan Kaal connects caregivers in internally displaced persons (IDP) communities with critical information on nutrition, hygiene, and health.

Connecting Communities to Health Services through Radio

The program features a 10-episode radio drama in Somali and May May dialects, complemented by live call-in shows and mobile voice messages. To reinforce its messages, the initiative also distributed posters and hosted mobile van broadcasts in IDP camps. This information empowers caregivers to adopt practices that improve child health and nutrition, while also encouraging shared decision-making within households.

Content

Radio Drama
Radio Spots
Original Music
Poster

Conversation

Call-in Shows
Interactive Voice Response (IVR), and Text Messages

Action

Mobile Van

Listening to Dhallaan Kaal helped me understand how to provide better care for my children and involve my husband in these decisions.

— Fatima listener, Mogadishu

Dhallaan Kaal reflects the realities of Somalia’s IDP communities, using relatable characters and culturally sensitive narratives to inspire lasting behavior change. The program, created through co-design workshops and formative research, ensures its messages resonate deeply with audiences.

Dhallaan Kaal bridges critical gaps in health knowledge, offering families a chance to thrive.

Positive Impact on Health Knowledge and Practices

IMPACT

15,881

phone numbers subscribed to Interactive Voice Response (IVR)

94.2%

of listeners improved breastfeeding techniques

88.5%

of listeners support shared decision-making among men and women

Network and Skill Development

Through our mentorship WFP Somalia has strengthened communication and audience engagement skills to improve nutrition and health among mothers and infants.

Rising Impact is empowering communities to improve child health and prevent malnutrition through initiatives like Dhallan Kaal.

Somalia faces widespread food insecurity due to conflict, famine, and displacement, with malnutrition disproportionately impacting children under two and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Dhallaan Kaal was developed by Rising Impact in collaboration with WFP Somalia and local partners, with funding from the World Food Programme.