An Islamist insurgent-run radio station in Somalia says it is awarding guns, bombs and books to three children in a Koran recital contest.

Andulus radio station is run by the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab militia.

The station announced on Monday that the first prize winner in the contest received a rifle and $US700, the second prize winner got a rifle and $US500, and the third prize winner received two bombs.

All three children also received religious books.

Al-Shabab is battling Somalia's weak, UN-backed government.

The militants have recently been weakened by famine in territory they control.

AP