Held in the divided city of Galkayo—a hotspot of inter-clan tensions and climate-driven displacement—the workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including journalists, social media influencers, clan elders, women leaders, youth activists, religious scholars, IDP representatives, persons with disabilities, and officials from both Puntland and Galmudug regional states.

Mudug, located in central Somalia, remains one of the most conflict-prone regions in the country. Divided between Puntland (north) and Galmudug (south), with Galkayo also split between the two, the region suffers from overlapping jurisdictions, governance disputes, and cyclical violence.

The worsening climate crisis—especially recurrent droughts—continues to deepen the region’s vulnerability. Water and pasture scarcity have triggered deadly clashes between communities, displaced thousands, and pushed many young people into irregular migration. Women and youth are disproportionately affected, with more than 75% of gender-based violence (GBV) cases reported in IDP settlements where psychosocial services are minimal or nonexistent.

SJS documentation shows Galkayo has been the second deadliest city for journalists in Somalia over the past decade, after Mogadishu. Crimes against journalists are rarely prosecuted, and impunity remains a serious concern.

The SJS/Baraarug workshop aimed to explore how local media and civic voices can support peace rather than perpetuate division.

Hassan Abdirahman Aden, Director of Media at Galmudug’s Ministry of Information and Culture, reflected on how local media in the past contributed to conflict by aligning with clan interests:

“At the beginning of the conflict in this region, media platforms were used to fuel tensions because they operated along clan lines. But today, we are witnessing a shift—local journalists are giving space to peace initiatives. The media no longer incites violence here. Instead, social media has become the new source of division,” he said.

Participants also raised concerns over the rise of unregulated social media content and influencers whose behavior risks inciting division.

Voices of Women, Youth, and Elders

Women participants shared powerful testimonies about their evolving role in peacebuilding.

Habiibo Mohamud Abdi, Chair of the Galkayo Women’s Peace Committee, said:

“Initially, women were excluded from peace talks. Clan elders didn’t see us as relevant negotiators. But later, when 13 women from each side—Galmudug and Puntland—were included at the table, real peace began. Women were the key to achieving Galkayo’s current stability.”

Clan elder Abdukadir Ali Igal emphasized that most inter-clan fighting stems from disputes over land and resources:

“When we the clan elders say ‘go to war,’ youth follow. When we say ‘stop,’ they stop. The root causes are known to us, and the responsibility lies with us to decide between peace and war. That’s just the reality.”

But beyond clan dynamics, participants pointed to weak state institutions and widespread corruption as deeper structural causes of conflict.

Mohamed Sa’id Mohamud, a youth leader and co-founder of the Mudug Peace and Development Forum, highlighted the absence of state leadership:

“State collapse is why conflict keeps returning. Youth and women were excluded from the 2015 and 2016 peace agreements in Galkayo. However, in 2017, we youth forced our way in and joined hands across clan elders. That’s what led to the peace we enjoy today.”

Call to Action: Women’s Rights & Civic Media

MP Ibaado Yusuf Ahmed, one of the few women sitting in the Galmudug State Assembly, urged the media to do more in promoting civic education and gender equality:

“Women are still denied equal participation. Even in parliament, it’s a struggle. I call on the media to amplify women’s voices and support civic advocacy.”

The Secretary General of SJS, Abdalle Mumin stated:

“In a region marked by division and hardship, the role of independent, responsible journalism has never been more critical. Through our Baraarug Campaign, we are empowering journalists, women, and youth to become catalysts for peace, inclusion, and the defense of civic rights. Only by working together can we build a stable and just for all Somalis.”

The Baraarug Campaign, led by SJS in collaboration with Somali civil society groups, aims to amplify youth and women’s voices in civic life using digital platforms and creative storytelling. It aligns with the Dutch Human Rights Policy, promoting civic awareness, gender equality, and freedom of expression—core values for democratic accountability.

Launched in December 2024, Baraarug empowers young Somalis to express themselves, advocate for inclusion, and mobilize both local and international solidarity for positive change.

More information about Baraarug visit our dedicated webpage: www.sjsyndicate.org/baraarug

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Mahad Salad was initially appointed as NISA chief on 26 May 2022 but was dismissed on 4 April 2024 following numerous allegations of targeted attacks on media institutions, civil society groups, and minority communities, as reported by the media. Sadly no investigation was made into his crimes. He was reappointed on 1 June 2025 and officially assumed office Saturday 14 June.

Targeted Crackdown on SJS and Independent Media

On 10 October 2022, NISA agents raided the offices of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) in Mogadishu after staff had completed their workday. CCTV footage obtained by SJS shows the operation was led by a former Al-Shabaab defector employed by NISA.

On 11 October 2022, SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Ahmed Mumin was abducted at Mogadishu Aden Adde International Airport and held incommunicado for 11 days in an underground cell. During his detention, he survived torture and an assassination attempt. On 13 April 2024, Banadir Court froze SJS bank accounts, using leaked private information supplied by Premier Bank, a bank tied to the Somali government. Further,  NISA officers interrupted SJS women journalists’ training in Mogadishu in January 2024.

On 23 February 2023, Mumin was re-arrested by NISA and police officers under orders from Mahad Salad and in coordination with Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala. He endured 33 days of torture and mistreatment in secret facilities until he was released in late March 2023 and forced to leave the country.

Under Salad’s direction, journalists in Mogadishu and beyond were subjected to surveillance, arbitrary arrests, violence, and threats. SJS has documented the following incidents:

• 30 November 2022: Journalists at the People’s House (Federal Parliament) were threatened with death or imprisonment for questioning lawmakers about the Villa Rays hotel attack.
• 18 December 2022: UK-based Channel 4 correspondent Jamal Muhumed Osman, a Somali-British, was unlawfully detained and sent back by NISA agents while he was arriving for journalism assignment.
• 19 December 2022: NISA officers assaulted Arlaadi Media reporter Mohamed Nur Mohamed inside the Parliament premises.
• 24 December 2022: SJS legal officer Abdirahman Hassan Omar and staff members were unlawfully detained at Mogadishu airport by NISA agents under Mahad Salad en route to a journalist training in Hiiraan.
• 24 December 2022: Arlaadi Media editor Aweys Bashir Abdirahman was beaten near KM4 by suspected NISA agents.
• 10 February 2023: SJS legal adviser Abdirahman Hassan Omar was attacked by four armed men in a targeted assault. The attack occured in Bakaro market area controlled by NISA.
• 20 February 2023: Radio Kulmiye journalists Ali Elmi Salad and Sakariye Mohamed Salad were arrested and interrogated by NISA.
• 7 April 2023: NISA officer in-charge of the Mogadishu airport, Mahad Arab Dhiblawe issued public threats against SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin and journalists from Risaala Media following an interview Mr. Mumin gave to the radio in relation to his arrest and kidnapping by NISA in Mogadishu. Days later, the journalist said he was forced to remove an interview with Abdalle Mumin following online attacks from the Somali Ministry of Information.
• In August 2023, SJS’s website and email systems were put offline by a wave DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks traced to IP addresses rented by criminal groups believed to be linked to NISA. The non-profit group Qurium which investigated the attacks and made its analysis indicated that it thwarted “nearly 20,000 IP addresses coming to SJS website with millions of requests” on August 18 and 19. The attack began on the heels of the kidnapping of SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul by NISA in Mogadishu.
• On 17 August 2023, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, was kidnapped by NISA and police agents and held for 56 days after exposing police corruption.

Expansion of Abuses Beyond Media: Extortion and Extrajudicial Killings

Journalists and editors have reported to SJS how insiders working as informants within media houses monitored and threatened journalists critical of NISA. This has forced many Somali journalists into self-censorship or exile to avoid persecution.

Between May 2022 and April 2024, a new tactic emerged involving the use of bribes and social media trolls to discredit, harass, and threaten journalists and civil society actors. These troll networks—funded through covert channels by NISA—have systematically targeted government critics, often smearing their reputations or inciting violence against them online.

In some cases, journalists were also threatened by Al-Shabaab operatives after reporting critically on NISA leadership, illustrating the dangerous double-bind facing independent media in Somalia—caught between state repression and extremist threats.

In February 2024, journalists reporting on the murder of UK-trained Somali air traffic controller Abdinasir Muse Dahable—who was found murdered after being tortured—were threatened by NISA officers linked to Mahad Salad. The killing was linked to NISA officers under Salad’s command, one of whom fled to Nairobi. Five men who were also arrested by NISA following the Dahable’s death were reported to have endured torture under NISA.

No independent investigation has been carried out to date; however, local journalists told SJS they were threatened with “death or disappearance” if they spoke about the case.

On 18 March 2024, a Turkish drone strike in Afgoye based on faulty NISA intel killed 23 civilians. Amnesty International investigation found that civilians killed in the strikes included 14 children, five women and four men. Another 17 civilians were injured in the strikes: 11 children, two women and four men. All are from the marginalized Gorgaarte clan. Families seeking justice were threatened by NISA and accused of terrorist affiliations. Mahad Salad aides also threatened reporters on the ground who were investigating the incident.

SJS reiterates that holding Mahad Mohamed Salad accountable would be a critical step toward ending the entrenched culture of impunity—not only for attacks on journalists, but also for the widespread abuses inflicted on Somalia’s most vulnerable communities during his tenure—thereby contributing to lasting peace, stability, and the restoration of the rule of law in the country.

“Instead of holding him accountable, the Somali government has rewarded Mahad Mohamed Salad with his crimes, greenlighting more abuses against journalists and marginalized communities,” said SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim. “We urge the Somali government to immediately review this decision, remove Salad, and prosecute him. His victims deserve justice and protection. He should not be allowed to rule with terror again.”

“We also call on the international community, including press freedom and human rights organizations, to speak out and support accountability efforts—those who suffered under his leadership are still waiting for justice,” Mr. Ibrahim added.

If left unchallenged, this move risks enabling the whitewashing of grave human rights violations across the country.

On Saturday, 31 May 2025, SJS observed media reports indicating that the Minister of Women and Human Rights had began the selection of the members of the yet-to-be-formed NHRC. This body, according to the Provisional Constitution, is to be established by the Federal Parliament, not by the President’s Office or a cabinet minister.

It is deeply concerning that Minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, acting under instructions from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, proceeded this process without transparency and legal clarity thereby violating both national laws and international norms.

SJS reiterates the urgent need for a genuinely independent National Human Rights Commission, as articulated in Article 41 of the Provisional Constitution, which states:
“The Federal Parliament shall establish a Human Rights Commission that is independent of State control, and has adequate resources to carry out its functions effectively.”

The Constitution also states what functions this commission is going to undertake and it states “The functions of the Human Rights Commission (NHRC) shall include the promotion of knowledge of human rights, setting implementation standards, monitoring rights violations, and investigating alleged abuses.”

In addition, Law No. 18 of 2016, enacted on 14 August 2016, provides the legal framework for the Somalia National Human Right Commission, emphasizing its “independence from government control, transparency, and autonomy in decision-making.”

Contradictions in the Current Process

Despite these clear legal provisions, the current process was initiated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, through Minister of Women and Human Rights, Khadija Al-Makhzoumi, without any legal basis or public participation. Individuals—many with ties to government ministries or personal connections to top officials—were invited for a so-called examination, without a publicly announced or merit-based selection procedure.

This is not the first irregularity.  In December 2023, the same ministry sent emails calling for NHRC applications via email (seen by SJS) and has been reported by the media. However, many qualified applicants reported receiving no response. Later, they discovered through the media that certain individuals had already been selected without public vetting or due process.

Why is the government pushing this now?

Somalia has never had an independent national human rights commission. For years, federal authorities in Mogadishu have delayed or resisted the establishment of a credible NHRC. The process has been plagued by political interference, lack of transparency, and non-compliance with constitutional and international obligations.

This move comes at a time of intense political instability and fragmentation in Somalia. The federal government’s relations with Puntland and Jubaland have deteriorated. Meanwhile, unilateral constitutional amendments and electoral reforms are being pushed forward by President Hassan Sheikh’s administration. Simultaneously, attacks on journalists, human rights defenders, and civilians by both the government and Al-Shabaab have increased.

Establishing a government-controlled NHRC in this volatile context would not serve justice—it would only legitimize repression, whitewash abuses, and shield violators from accountability.

SJS reminds the Somali government—particularly the Ministry of Women and Human Rights and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud—that the NHRC must be formed in line with international norms, notably the Paris Principles, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1993, and reinforced by the Kigali Declaration (2003) of the African Union.

The Paris Principles emphasize:

• Transparent and participatory selection processes involving civil society, academia, and human rights organizations.
• Merit-based selection of the commission members grounded in integrity and commitment to human rights.
• Public calls for applications, background checks, and open vetting.
• Independent, pluralistic selection committees free from political influence.
• Parliamentary oversight and legal grounding to ensure independence and legitimacy.

Similarly, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) Resolution 31 requires that NHRIs: (a) Be established by constitutional or legislative mandate; (b) Be independent of government control; (c) Have a broad, actionable mandate, including powers to investigate, report, and recommend action; (d) Be financially autonomous.

What we witnessed on Saturday in Mogadishu stands in direct violation of all these standards.  SJS calls on the Federal Government of Somalia to immediately halt the ongoing process and restart the formation of the NHRC in full compliance with Article 41 of the Provisional Constitution and international standards.

SJS makes the following recommendations:

• The Somali government must reform the election process and ensure it is legally grounded, publicly communicated, and free from political interference in any form.
• As requires by the Constitution, the Parliament must establish an Independent Selection Committee and include credible and trustworthy representatives from civil society, minority groups, academia, and legal experts with clean background.
• The Parliament must ensure transparent vetting and appointment procedures, and base appointments on objective, merit-based criteria with public oversight.
• The federal government must guarantee NHRC independence and the commission must operate free from government control or political manipulation.
• The Parliament must ensure oversight to ensure that all appointments must be reviewed and confirmed by the Federal Parliament following broad consultations with civil society.
• The selection committee must prevent rights abusers from involvement in the committee and individuals implicated in human rights violations must be barred from participating in the selection process or serving on the commission.

SJS Call to Somali Civil Society

SJS urges independent Somali civil society organizations to take a proactive role in advocating for a credible, inclusive, and transparent NHRC formation process. Somalia deserves a national human rights institution that defends victims and holds all actors accountable, including the state.

SJS Call to the International Community

SJS also call on international partners, and development organizations to closely monitor this process and ensure that any support provided aligns with international human rights standards and promotes a genuinely independent NHRC.

“This flawed process of the selection of the National Human Rights Commission can and must be corrected. SJS affirms that a credible, independent National Human Rights Commission is far better than a politicized, government-controlled one. Somalia needs an National Human Rights Commission that protects the rights of its people—not one that enables impunity,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

The meeting brought together press freedom advocates, representatives from International Media Support (IMS), officials from the Ministry of Information who have been targeting journalists including SJS, and members of the diplomatic community.

Participants voiced alarm over the increasing repression targeting Somali journalists, particularly those based in Mogadishu, and the broader erosion of press freedom across the country.

The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) expressed grave concern over the escalating attacks on journalists, SJS members, and independent media houses. These attacks have intensified following public threats issued by government officials from the police and the the Ministry of Information.

“Since the statement by the Minister of Information Daud Aweis Jama and the Mogadishu Police Commissioner, Moalim Mahdi on 6 March 2025, attacks on journalists have significantly increased. Press freedom is dying in Somalia. We are deeply concerned that the Somali government—specifically the Ministry of Information, police forces, and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA)—is deliberately targeting journalists for their independent reporting,” said Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, during the meeting.

Reporting on security issues including threats posed by Al-Shabaab terror group, government corruption and human rights abuses remain a red line for journalists in Somalia, particularly in Mogadishu.

The 6 March statement by Minister Daud Aweis and Mogadishu Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin (known as Moalim Mahdi who is also an ex-defector of Al-Shabaab), which openly threatened “severe punishment” media outlets against publishing any reporting related to security has triggered a new wave of suppression.

Participants also highlighted the growing intimidation of journalists working for state media in Mogadishu, many of whom have faced threats, suspensions, and dismissals for critical reporting or expressing independent views.

Serious concern was raised regarding threats against women journalists, including threats of sexual violence and other security risks, which have become increasingly common.

The diplomatic community was urged to stand in support of press freedom advocacy and to take meaningful steps to ensure the safety and protection of Somali journalists.

Between 1 January and 30 April 2025, a total of 46 journalists were arrested or detained across Somalia, according to SJS documentation. Journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe was killed in Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu on 18 March. Additionally, two journalists were kidnapped and have since disappeared in Lower Shabelle, Southwest State. Both government forces and Al-Shabaab have contributed to an increasingly hostile environment for the press, marked by physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, killings, and online censorship.

State security forces and police—many of whom are former Al-Shabaab defectors—were behind most of the raids, arrests, and intimidation incidents. NISA continued its practice of unlawful detentions and harassment, particularly in Mogadishu. Of the 46 arrests so far, 41 occurred in Mogadishu alone, underscoring how Mogadishu remains a dangerous place for journalists.

Reflecting today’s engagement, the SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, thanked the diplomatic community for their efforts and reiterated a strong call for media freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, peacebuilding, and efforts to counter violent extremism.

“I take this opportunity to remind Somalia’s international partners that there can be no democratic Somalia unless we have a strong and independent media, and the international community must act to defend free media. Accountability is key to ending this cycle of violence subjected to the journalist community in Somalia including SJS members. Let us make no mistake: those who target journalists must be held accountable, no matter how powerful they are or whether they command armed groups,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

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The symposium, titled “About the Disappearance of a World“, focused on the critical responsibilities of aid and human rights organizations in addressing war, disasters, migration, the climate crisis, and the role of today’s media and journalists as frontline defenders and witnesses.

SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin participated as a panelist, emphasizing that the climate crisis is not just an environmental concern, but also a manifestation of historical and ongoing global power imbalances. He illustrated this with the example of the 2021 floods in Germany that claimed over 180 lives and triggered billions in recovery aid, compared to the 2022 drought in Somalia which killed 43,000 people—mostly children—with far less international attention.

“Yet climate-linked migration is often framed as a security threat in Europe and beyond, justifying walls, detention, and militarization, rather than addressing the root causes,” said Mr. Mumin.

Somalia remains one of the countries most severely affected by the climate crisis, with millions forced into displacement after losing their livelihoods. Floods and recurrent droughts continue to claim lives—mostly among vulnerable groups such as women and children.

Since 2022, SJS has partnered with Medico International to train more than 60 local journalists—including those from communities directly affected by floods in southern and central Somalia—to report on climate change and raise awareness around climate justice.

Journalists, including those within the SJS network, have also been victimized by recurrent droughts and floods, often compounded by ongoing conflicts.

This SJS-Medico International initiative not only engaged journalists and media professionals but also brought together local authorities, community leaders, and human rights defenders to seek solutions to this persistent crisis.

“Journalists play a critical role in shaping climate policy, raising awareness among local communities—including displaced persons—and assisting them in developing mitigation and adaptation strategies,” added Mr. Mumin. “When empowered, the media’s influence on public opinion is substantial, and how climate issues are reported and understood directly impacts the discourse and the solutions provided to affected communities.”

At the Frankfurt symposium, discussions also highlighted the massive budget cuts in climate action and the increasing securitization of climate-induced migration.

However, one powerful outcome was a renewed call for global solidarity and a reminder that hope must not be lost. Journalists were recognized for their role in ensuring that the world does not silently disappear.

“I believe our greatest task is to ask ourselves how we can be better humans—to each other, to our communities, to those forced to flee, and to our disappearing world,” Mr. Mumin added “In a time where rising seas erase coastlines, where families are displaced by conflict and climate, and where walls are built faster than bridges—it’s easy to feel hopeless. But journalists can, and must, carry this responsibility effectively.”

The final message concluded with Mr. Mumin reciting a verse from a song by the renowned Somali singer, the late Luul Jeylani, who more than three decades ago poignantly connected themes of love, sustenance, and human appreciation. She sang:

‘A man who plants sorghum in a pit, will reap it when the rains fall, he will not lose it.

It is only right to appreciate each other. The favor you showed me, I’ve cherished with.

Is it fair for me to cut ties with you?’

SJS extends its sincere gratitude to Medico International for organizing this impactful symposium. We also deeply appreciate the warm welcome and rich exchanges with fellow journalists, academics, NGO leaders, and solidarity groups during the event in Frankfurt.

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, journalists from a dozen of media houses were invited to cover a joint press conference featuring Minister of Security General Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, Minister of Religious Affairs Mukhtar Robow Ali, and Attorney General Sulayman Mohamoud. During the briefing, RTN TV journalist Mohamed Abduqadir Hajir raised critical questions regarding the closure of major business hubs in Mogadishu due to escalating insecurity and alleged ‘extortion’, a concern publicly raised by the business community in a 7 February communiqué. This widespread market closure had paralyzed economic activity in the capital.

When RTN TV journalist Hajir directed his questions to the Minister of Security, Deputy Minister Al-Adaala interrupted with harassment and humiliation telling him publicly “to stop” and that he “should not ask such questions”. Shortly afterward, a security officer stepped forward, removed journalists’ microphones from the podium, and cut off the recording.

This incident follows a pattern of intimidation against the same RTN TV journalist. Late January, Hajir and his team were harassed and threatened with detention after interviewing a police officer who spoke out about the demolition of his family’s home and his inability to relocate due to unpaid salaries. The police officer was among thousands of vulnerable residents at the ex-Carwada Qaranka site, Mogadishu, who were forcibly evicted by the government in collaboration with Premier Bank.

As a result of these threats, RTN TV was forced to delete the interview, although it was later republished by other platforms.

Similarly, Radio Risaala’s management informed SJS that their journalists have faced continuous threats and bans from public offices by Abdirahman Al-Adaala, who has abused his authority as Deputy Minister of Information. The Ministry of Information even refused to renew Radio Risaala’s registration, forcing the station to seek registration from another government ministry.

Additionally, the Somali Media Association, which represents 33 independent media houses nationwide, reported that Al-Adaala has targeted them with similar restrictions.

On 3 December, 2024, under Al-Adaala’s orders, the Director General of the Ministry of Information, Abdullahi Hayir Duale, mandated that all journalists working for international media outlets register with the ministry. This directive, framed as a “safety and security procedure,” was rejected by SJS and its members as a direct threat to independent journalists covering public interest issues, including security operations, human rights and corruption.

The repression of journalists under Al-Adaala’s leadership has extended to state media reporters as well. In April 2024, state media journalist and presenter Sugaal Moalim Mohamud was suspended, and his salary was halted in retaliation for his reporting on mismanagement and corruption within the Ministry of Defense. Sources within the ministry confirmed to SJS that the decision, carried out by Director General Duale, was ordered by Al-Adaala.

Similarly, in July 2024, state media journalist Abdulkadir Isse Ali was dismissed, blocked from accessing the state media, and had his salary cut after publishing a report exposing alleged fraud and corruption involving Al-Adaala. Days later, his Facebook account was restricted under a copyright claim, prompting SJS to intervene. Both Sugaal and Abdulkadir have previously received threats from Al-Shabaab due to their roles in state media, and their dismissal further endangered their safety.

The crackdown on press freedom is not new. In October 2022, officers from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) raided the SJS office in Mogadishu and abducted SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin. This attack came after Al-Adaala issued a directive aimed at restricting media freedom, prompting SJS and four other press freedom organizations to voice their concerns, despite Al-Adaala threatening to target SJS in a phone call to the SJS leadership on the same day.

Since 2022, SJS has continued to recognize Abdirahman Al-Adaala as the worst violators of press freedom in Somalia, citing his ongoing threats, intimidation, and attacks, and calls for immediate accountability for his actions.

In July 2019, two non-profit media organizations had their names published online by the state media following a letter signed by Al-Adaala, accusing the institutions for “violating the national plan, public culture, religious and customs”.” This accusation of “violating religious customs” was enough to endanger the local staff of both organizations in Somalia. The two organizations later told SJS that they were forced to pay bribes to Abdirahman Al-Adaala, who was then acting director general of the Ministry of Information, in order to continue operating, despite being legally registered and the accusations being false. Eight days later, the Ministry of Information published another directive announcing its approval for the two organizations.

“We strongly condemn the actions of Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Information, Abdirahman Al-Adaala, and his ongoing efforts to stifle press freedom in the country. These continued attacks are not only a violation of journalists’ rights but also an affront to the truth and the public’s right to know. Al-Adaala’s actions are endangering the security of already vulnerable journalists and their families. We call for immediate accountability and demand that Al-Adaala be held responsible for his threats and actions against the media,” said SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim

“The Somali government must ensure that those who target journalists, like Al-Adaala, are held accountable, and the rights of the press are protected at all costs. We also call on the international community to hold Al-Adaala accountable and to support efforts to safeguard media freedom and human rights in Somalia,” added Mr. Ibrahim

The event, inaugurated by the Minister of Justice of Puntland, H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab, brought together representatives from diverse sectors, including the Puntland Police, the Puntland Media Association (MAP), human rights defenders, Midnimo Women Network, and the Puntland Non-State Actors’ Association (PUNSA).

H.E. Mohamed Abdiwahab highlighted Puntland’s progress in advancing human rights through legislative reforms and institutional strengthening.

“Somalia has yet to fully learn from the violations of the past, such as killings and detentions that defied human rights principles. However, in Puntland, we have made significant strides. We have enacted human rights laws, implemented child protection legislation, and strengthened judicial institutions to safeguard citizens’ rights,” he stated.

Emphasizing democratic participation as a fundamental right, the minister added, “We have entrusted Puntland’s future to its citizens through elections, allowing them to exercise their voice and take part in decision-making. Puntland remains committed to defending and promoting human rights.”

Naimo Muse Elmi, Secretary of MAP, emphasized the pivotal role of the media in advocating for human rights.

“All people are equal; no one is superior in dignity or honor to another. The media has a duty to uphold this principle. I commend the Puntland media for their prominent role in defending human rights,” she remarked.

SJS Secretary of Information and Human Rights, Mohamed Bulbul, speaking at the panel stressed the importance of protecting journalists within the broader human rights context.

“Journalists in our country play a crucial role in defending human rights, and this contribution is visible. Society must recognize that defending journalists is equivalent to defending the public interest and all other rights,” he stated.

The panel also addressed the challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women, in Puntland. Ifrah Abdi Nur from Midnimo Women Network highlighted the severe underrepresentation of women in politics.

“The violations we face are numerous, but one of the most glaring issues is the lack of women’s participation in politics. For instance, there is only one woman in the current Puntland Parliament, which itself is a violation of equal representation in the government,” she said.

Said Mumin, from Puntland Human Rights Defenders, outlined persistent human rights abuses in the region.

“Violations such as sexual violence, torture, killings, and human trafficking remain prevalent. Citizens are often denied their basic rights, and addressing these issues requires collective action from both the government and society,” he explained.

Puntland police officer, Abdi Darwiish, reaffirmed to the panel that the government’s dedication to upholding human rights in Puntland.

“Puntland is not among the regions where gross violations occur rampantly. The rule of law and judicial processes are functional here. However, there remains much issues to address, especially in cases involving human rights abuses in Puntland,” he noted, “As the police in Puntland We are working to improve the situation of the human rights.”

Participants from various sectors of the society—including journalists, representatives of the internally displaced community, women’s groups, youth representatives, police, human rights activists, and business leaders—raised critical questions about the state of freedoms in Puntland.

Key issues discussed included arbitrary detentions of government critics, including journalists, the stigmatization of people living with HIV, lack of access to education for the displaced people, and discrimination against minority groups and women in employment opportunities.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin thanked the Puntland police and civil society members who participated in the panel discussion, which was also broadcast on local media, for their openness in addressing challenging questions from the public.

“I thank everyone who participated in the panel discussion. Indeed, when people come together and have the ability to discuss important issues affecting their community, it brings a sense of cohesion, unity, and healing. I hope the Puntland government will address the key issues raised during the discussion, and that we will see closer cooperation between the government and its people to improve the human rights situation,” Mr. Mumin added.

The event, supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), concluded with a call for strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address human rights challenges, ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all citizens in Puntland and Somalia.

The launch event, led by Minister of Security of the Somali Federal Government, Gen. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartaag), signaled a critical step toward fostering inclusive civic engagement and addressing key human rights challenges in Somalia.

“Today, we are here for the launch of the Baraarug campaign. I thank the organizers of this campaign, which is intended as a wake-up call for human rights issues,” the minister said.

“Fellow brothers and sisters, and all the guests here, I want to speak a little bit about human rights, which are of huge importance in Islam. Islam has protected human rights, and our decent Somali culture guarantees these rights.”

“This is especially important as we have a long-standing tradition of protecting vulnerable people, known as Barimageydo, during clan conflicts. We pledge to uphold human rights,” the minister added, emphasizing the need to address abuses affecting women, journalists, and minorities.

The Baraarug campaign, organized by the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) in collaboration with Somali civil society groups, seeks to leverage digital platforms and artistic expression to highlight barriers faced by Somali youth and women in exercising their civic rights.

The initiative aligns with the Dutch Human Rights Policy by focusing on civic awareness, freedom of expression, and gender equality—fundamental elements of democratic accountability and engagement.

Through its key activities, the digital campaign empowers youth and women with platforms to express their voices, raises awareness about civic rights, and mobilizes public and international solidarity.

The launch of the campaign featured diverse elements, including live cinema screenings, cultural performances, and an interactive panel discussion. Influencers, artists, and activists contributed to this dynamic dialogue, ensuring widespread reach and impact.

SJS Secretary General Abdalle Ahmed Mumin noted that the Baraarug campaign, which also includes the production of two radio podcasts every month, will address key issues affecting Somali citizens, with a special focus on women, youth, and freedom of expression in Somalia.

“I want to thank all my team members, our friends and partners from civil society, community leaders, minority groups, women, and youth for the incredible support and reception they have offered us since the beginning of this program. Our campaign is committed to amplifying the voices of youth and women in Somalia to promote awareness and understanding of civic rights and freedoms,” Mr. Mumin said.

The campaign’s hashtag, #Baraarug, energized online participation, encouraging citizens to share stories and advocate for change.

The Baraarug digital campaign highlights the transformative potential of digital and art-led approaches in addressing systemic challenges, such as limited access to civic spaces and security concerns.

By inspiring action and fostering dialogue, this initiative aims to promote a more inclusive and equitable society where the voices of all Somali citizens—especially youth and women—contribute to the nation’s progress and resilience.

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Somalia remarked:

‘’Human rights are not just ‘nice to have’ – they are the basis of human wellbeing, equality, dignity and freedom. All around the world, even the most basic rights are under pressure due to conflict, climate change, and oppression. On Human Rights Day, we remember the vital importance of upholding human rights for all people, everywhere.”

Follow Updates about #Baraarug on social media: Facebook, X. Tiktok, Youtube, Instagram.

Visit Baraarug website: www.sjsyndicate.org/baraarug

SJS emphasizes that ending impunity for crimes against journalists—whether the perpetrators are government officials, powerful clan militia groups, or al-Shabaab—remains essential to ensuring journalists’ safety and improving Somalia’s global reputation, currently among the worst for unsolved journalist murders.

Since SJS began tracking crimes against journalists in 2019, 12 journalists (two females and ten males) have been killed for their profession as journalists. Today, we honor their memories:

1. Mohamed Omar Sahal – Killed in Kismayo, 12 July 2019

2. Hodan Naleyeh – Killed in Kismayo, 12 July 2019

3. Abdinasir Abdulle Ga’al – Killed in Awdhegle, 14 August 2019

4. Said Yusuf Ali – Killed in Mogadishu, 4 May 2020

5. Abdiwali Ali Hassan (Abdiwali Online) – Killed in Afgoye, 16 February 2020

6. Abdiaziz Mohamud Guled – Killed in Mogadishu, 20 November 2021

7. Jamal Farah Adan – Killed in Galkayo, 1 March 2021

8. Mohamed Isse Koonaa – Killed in Mogadishu, 29 October 2022

9. Ahmed Mohamed Shakur – Killed in Basra (Middle Shabelle), 30 September 2022

10. Abdifatah Moalim Nur (Qeys) – Killed in Mogadishu, 16 October 2023

11. Abdikarin Ahmed Bulhan – Killed in Abudwaq, 14 March 2024

12. Amun Abdullahi Mohamed – Killed near Afgoye, 18 October 2024

Tragically, over 85 journalists– both local and international journalists – were murdered in Somalia since 1992, with most cases unsolved, leaving their families in prolonged grief. Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital and the federal government seat, leads with 85% of these murders, followed by Galkayo, a city divided between Puntland and Galmudug administrations in the Mudug region.

Today, in solidarity with the local media community, SJS joins journalists and the families of fallen colleagues in Galkayo to honor those lost and reinforce the call to end impunity. In conjunction, SJS has released a documentary highlighting Galkayo’s ongoing pain, as journalists and families continue to grapple with these losses.

Hussein Abdi Jim’ale Madar, a journalist with Radio Daljir, narrates the trauma and agony he carries following the killing of three colleagues.

“I still feel the pain and feel traumatized. The three colleagues who were killed are still in my memory. There was a time when I nearly wanted to quit this job, but I later decided to carry on. I want to call on the government to document all journalists killed and provide care for their families,” Hussein Madar said.

Galkayo police operations commander, Capt. Arab Abdirisaq Ahmed, told SJS that despite the impunity, Galkayo journalists feel safer than they were a decade ago.

“Journalists were killed, as were government officials. Some of the killers, who were members of Al-Shabaab, were arrested, sentenced, and executed. However, despite the impunity, I can say it is better than it was ten years ago,” Capt. Arab said, noting a close collaboration between the Puntland police in Galkayo and the local media houses and their journalists.

He said the police now respond to any reports of threats against journalists, despite the limitations of the capacity of the police.

Since 2021, SJS has provided ongoing professional training to improve the safety and security of local journalists, both men and women, in both sides of Galkayo. SJS is gratified that these trainings have contributed to enhancing the safety of media workers.

“Six years after we began documenting attacks on journalists in Somalia, we return to Galkayo—a city notorious as the second deadliest for journalists after Mogadishu. Through interviews and visits to the media outlets where these journalists once worked, we witnessed the lingering pain and grief of their colleagues and families,” said SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin.

“On this day, we underscore our call to end impunity for all journalists murdered in Somalia and to allow the victims’ families the justice they deserve. Each fallen journalist deserves a thorough and impartial investigation, regardless of who is implicated, including government officials, al-Shabaab, or other criminals,” added Mr. Mumin.

Note: After six years of manual documentation, SJS is grateful for the support it has received from the National Endowment for Democracy, which has enabled SJS to launch an online database for documenting violations of media freedom in Somalia and Somaliland. Visit data.sjsyndicate.org.

A week has passed since Alinur Salad was released on bail, guaranteed by a member of parliament on the afternoon of Saturday, 27 July. The journalist was detained on 22 July and spent six days in detention due to his reporting about khat (a stimulant plant). Alinur reported that “after chewing at night, the Somali security forces go to sleep in the morning, giving Al-Shabaab the chance to attack and kill many soldiers.” The one-minute video report, published on Dawan TV and Alinur’s personal Facebook page, also questioned how a government official involved in the khat business for profit could claim to be building a national army. The report, which was now removed from the journalist’s platforms, is deemed critical of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was allegedly part of the khat business.

Banadir Regional Court sources told SJS that on Tuesday, 23 July, the court remanded Alinur for 45 days in detention with a charge sheet forwarded by the attorney general’s office. It states five charges under the Somali penal code: Art. 220 (Offending the Honour or Prestige of the Head of the State); Art. 402 (Obscene Acts); Art. 403 (Obscene Publications and Performances); Art. 451 (Insult); Art. 452 (Defamation).

Both court sources and family representatives have informed SJS that the bail conditions prohibit Alinur from traveling and speaking to the media, effectively preventing him from conducting his journalistic work.

Family members told SJS that upon meeting President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud alongside clan elders last week, the president admitted his involvement in the journalist’s detention and promised the clan elders that he would order the attorney general to drop the charges.

“A week has passed now, and nothing has happened. It seems the president is not willing to allow Alinur’s full freedom,” one family member told SJS, requesting anonymity.

The family is also concerned for Alinur’s security.

SJS calls for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to tell his attorney general to drop the case and refrain seeking further retribution against Alinur Salad for exposing the khat trade. The president and other government officials should accept critical journalism that sheds light on their actions and decisions, using it as a tool for improvement and accountability. Instead of resorting to retribution or punitive measures such as jailing journalists, they should protect the freedom of the press and recognize its vital role in a transparent and democratic society.

“We are indeed very concerned that journalist and director of Dawan Media, Alinur Salad, is not yet able to conduct his journalism work because of the conditions in his bail granted a week ago. His family is also concerned for his safety after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud failed to uphold his promise of ordering his attorney general to drop the case, which was politically-motivated,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“We call for the president to instruct his attorney general and court officials to stop pursuing the politically-motivated charges and allow Alinur Salad his full freedom. The president should refrain from going after journalists and other critics who reveal his government’s actions. Respecting independent journalism is crucial for fostering a culture of openness, accountability, and progress in Somalia,” added Mr. Mumin.