PHOTO: Journalist Abdikarin Ahmed Bulhan, who succumbed to gunshot injuries on Thursday, 14 March 2024, in Abudwak city, in the central Somalia region of Galgaduud.
MOGADISHU, Somalia, 14 March 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) condemns the murder of prominent journalist Abdikarin Ahmed Bulhan, who succumbed to gunshot injuries on Thursday, 14 March 2024, in Abudwak city, in the central Somalia region of Galgaduud.
Abdikarin, a correspondent for the state-owned Somali National TV (SNTV) and Somali National News Agency (SONNA), sustained two bullet injuries on Wednesday, midday, 13 March 2024, according to family members and eyewitnesses. One bullet penetrated from the right side of his jaw to the left, while another struck his right leg. He was shot by a security guard working in a boarding school for orphaned children in Abudwak city, where Abdikarin volunteered. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but Hassan Ali Bulhan, Abdikarin’s uncle, told SJS that the security guard and Abdikarin had argued prior to the shooting.
Bile Abdi Warsame, who visited Abdikarin in the hospital, stated that doctors informed the family on Thursday morning that Abdikarin had succumbed to his injuries, after which arrangements were started for burial.
A senior official from the Galmudug security ministry, along with another from the information ministry, told SJS that the suspect has been arrested. SJS calls for a prompt investigation into Abdikarin’s murder and urges authorities to bring the suspect killer to the courts of law.
“We are deeply saddened by the murder of another prominent journalist in Somalia. Abdikarin Ahmed Bulhan made significant contributions to the Somali media industry, being among the first group of journalists to found a radio station in his city, Abudwak. Additionally, he was a dedicated peace activist, particularly in a city plagued by clan rivalry and violence, where he volunteered in humanitarian services as well,” said SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin.
“The perpetrator must be brought to trial to ensure that the journalist’s family receives justice. Based on accounts from eyewitnesses and the family, it appears that the suspect had a personal contact with Abdikarin. This underscores the need for a thorough investigation to determine the precise motive behind the killing,” added Mumin.
Abdikarin, aged 38, was born in Mogadishu and grew up in Abudwak city, where he pursued his journalism career. Throughout his years in journalism, he dedicated himself to training and mentoring a dozen young journalists in the Galgaduud region.
He is survived by his wife and five children. Abdikarin’s tragic death marks the first journalist murdered in Somalia this year, adding to the growing list of media workers murdered in the country amid a lack of accountability for such crimes.
SJS extends its deepest condolences to Abdikarin’s family, friends, and the Somali media community at large. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May God reward him in Jannah (Paradise) and may his soul rest in peace.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 10 March 2024 – The lack of transparency surrounding the assassination of Somali Cable TV director Abdifatah Moalim Nur (Qeys) by a suicide bomber in Mogadishu on October 16, 2023 and the unwillingness by Somali government’s security agencies to investigate the attack, serves as a stark reminder of Somalia’s failure to uphold its commitments to ensuring the safety and security of journalists. This tragic incident underscores Somalia’s persistent presence among the world’s worst impunity offenders for crimes against journalists, as identified by the Committee to Protect Journalists.
In the course of 2023, the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) conducted extensive documentation efforts across the country, revealing numerous instances of threats, attacks, and persecution targeting media workers. One such incident involved an armed attack on Radio Barawe, the only minority community-owned independent radio station in the Southwest State of Somalia, resulting in the closure of the radio and its journalists fleeing into exile.
Journalists and family members gather to pray and bury the body of slain colleague journalist Abdifatah Qeys in Mogadishu on 17 October, 2023. | PHOTO/SJS.
Additionally, SJS documented the arbitrary detention of 25 journalists, many of whom faced persecution and judicial harassment simply for carrying out their professional duties or advocating for media freedom. Notably, seven of these detentions, including one involving female journalist Busharo Ali Mohamed, were carried out by Somaliland authorities, while 18 cases were attributed to various Somali police units, the national intelligence agency, and affiliated regional forces such as those in Galmudug and Jubbaland. At least one media worker sustained injury in Mogadishu due to a knife attack.
Further exacerbating the challenges faced by journalists in Somalia, two television networks were instructed by local authorities to halt broadcasting or remove content deemed critical, while prominent journalists reported instances of forced removal of online content. This included reports exposing instances of torture perpetrated by Somali police in Mogadishu against a person with physical disabilities. Moreover, the Somali Ministry of Information boasted of its partnership with Facebook to censor online reporting critical of security forces combating Al-Shabaab, while Al-Shabaab itself threatened journalists collaborating with the state. Throughout the year, SJS documented numerous other cases involving online threats and physical violence against journalists.
Violations against the press in 2023. | Source: SJS.
Somali media organizations, including the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), encountered a substantial online assault, signaling a concerning uptick in endeavors to sabotage their vital works. Employing a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) tactic, the cyberattack besieged the SJS website, inundating it with traffic and rendering it inaccessible. Concurrently, at least three other local media entities also found themselves under siege by analogous attacks, underscoring the pervasive nature of the threat faced by journalistic platforms in the digital sphere.
Of particular concern is the increasing use of Facebook’s Community Standards and mass reporting to censor Somali journalists critical of the government, resulting in content take-downs, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the deletion of social media accounts. Journalists and media outlets critical of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) faced widespread censorship on Facebook, with warnings of page restrictions, suspensions, or content removal often issued under the guise of combating “dangerous organizations and individuals” or “violating community standards.”
Throughout 2023, journalists in Somalia and Somaliland faced significant challenges in reporting on corruption allegations, human rights violations perpetrated by state security forces, and insecurity and deadly attacks carried out by Al-Shabaab. Despite constitutional commitments to uphold press freedom, impunity for crimes against journalists remains a pressing concern, with no progress made towards investigating and holding perpetrators accountable.
In light of these ongoing challenges, the Somali Attorney General must prioritize the safety and security of journalists and address the issue of impunity, especially through the Special Prosecution Unit established in 2020 to investigate crimes against journalists, including cases involving high-profile government officials. Furthermore, the persistent use of penal codes in both Somalia and Somaliland continues to pose a threat to freedom of expression, underscoring the urgent need for legal reform.
Journalists gather for a protest to denounce the kidnapping-style detention against SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin in Mogadishu on 24 February, 2023. | PHOTO/SJS.
In response to these challenges, SJS and its international partners took significant actions in 2023, lodging two major complaints with the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detentions (UNWGAD) and the Human Rights Committee. These complaints addressed the arbitrary arrest and detention of Mohamed Bulbul, Information and Human Rights Secretary of SJS, and the persecution of Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of SJS. SJS remains committed to pursuing justice and accountability for these violations of press freedom.
Leveraging its international affiliations, SJS continued its advocacy efforts by collaborating with various civil society organizations to champion causes such as media freedom, human rights protection, secure online access, and safety measures for human rights defenders, including journalists, not only in Africa but also across other regions globally.
In July 2023, SJS achieved a significant milestone by joining the prestigious International Press Institute (IPI), a global network comprising editors, media executives, and distinguished journalists. This membership further strengthens SJS’s commitment to defending press freedom, safety of journalists, and upholding freedom of expression, both within Somalia and on the international stage.
SJS conducted training programs for 84 journalists, focusing on empowering female reporters and addressing human rights and women’s rights issues in Somalia. | Photo/SJS.
Throughout the year, SJS played a crucial role in supporting journalists amidst legal obstacles, providing a multifaceted approach to address the complexities of legal proceedings and threats to freedom of expression. This included offering legal defense support, mentorship, and advice to 47 journalists, with a significant representation of women. Additionally, SJS conducted training programs for 84 journalists, focusing on empowering female reporters and addressing human rights and women’s rights issues in Somalia. With support from organizations such as the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), and Medico International, approximately 40% of the participants were women. SJS plans to continue similar training initiatives in 2024 to further enhance the capabilities of local journalists across vital areas of reporting.
MUQDISHO, Soomaaliya 10 March 2024 – Daah-furnaan la’aanta ku gedaaman dilka Agaasimihii Somali Cable TV Cabdifataax Macallin Nuur (Qeys) oo lagu dilay qarax ismiidaamin ah oo ka dhacay Muqdisho 16-kii Oktoobar, 2023 iyo rabitaan la’aanta hay’adaha ammaanka ee dowladda Soomaaliya ee ah inaysan rabin inay baaritaan ku sameeyaan weerarkaas, waxay xasuusin weyn u tahay fashilka Dowladda Soomaaliya ee dhowrid la’aanta ballanqaadkeeda ku aaddanaa sugidda amniga iyo badqabka suxufiyiinta. Dhacdadan naxdinta leh ayaa hoosta ka xariiqaysa sida joogtada ah ee Soomaaliya ay u tahay meel dambiilayaasha ku kaca weerarada ka dhanka ah saxafiyiinta ay xor yihiin oo aan lala xisaabtamin, sida ku xusan diiwaanka Guddiga Difaaca Suxufiyiinta ee CPJ.
Intii lagu guda jiray sanadka 2023, Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS) wuxuu sameeyay dadaallo badan oo lagu diiwaangaliyay tacaddiyada ka dhanka ah saxafiyiinta iyo xarumaha warbaahinta dalka oo dhan, taasoo daaha ka qaadaysa tiro badan oo dhacdooyin handadaad ah, weeraro, iyo cadaadis lala beegsaday hawlwadeennada warbaahinta. Mid ka mid ah dhacdooyinka ayaa ahaa weerar hubeysan oo lagu qaaday Idaacadda Baraawe, oo ah tan kaliya ee bulshada deegaanka ee laga tirada badan yahay ay leeyihiin, taasoo keentay in la xiro idaacaddan madaxa-bannaan iyo in saxafiyiintii ka shaqeyneysay ay cabsi darteed uga carareen magaalada Baraawe.
Intaa waxaa dheer, SJS waxay diiwaangelisay xarigga aan sharciga ahayn ee 25 wariye, kuwaas oo intooda badan ay la kulmeen cadaadis, iyo cabsigelin loo adeegsaday garsoorka si looga horistaago saxafiyiinta gudashada waajibaadkooda shaqo ama u doodista xorriyadda warbaahinta. Waxaa xusid mudan, toddobo ka mid ah saxafiyiinta la beegsaday 2023 inay ka dheceen gudaha Somaliland, iyadoo mid ka mid ah saxafiyiinta gabar wariye ah oo lagu magacaabo Bushaaro Cali Maxamed (Bushaaro Baanday) oo ay xireen booliska Somaliland muddo ka badan labo bilood.
Weerarada ka dhanka ah saxafiyiinta ee sannadka 2023. | Xogta: SJS.
Illaa 18 kiis oo ah xarigga sharci darrada ee saxafiyiinta waxaa geystay qeybaha kala duwan ee booliska Soomaaliya, hay’adda sirdoonka ee NISA, iyo ciidamada ammaanka ee maamul goboleedyada sida kuwa Galmudug iyo Jubbaland. Ugu yaraan mid ka mid ah shaqaalaha warbaahinta ayaa ku dhaawacmay weerar mindi loo adeegsaday oo ka dhacay magaalada Muqdisho.
Waxaa sii xumeynaya caqabadaha haysta suxufiyiinta Soomaaliya, waxaa la faray laba shabakadood oo telefishanno maxalliga oo ka ka hawlgala Muqdisho iyo Hargeysa inay joojiyaan baahintooda ama meesha ka saaraan waxyaabaha loo arko in ay naqdi, halka saxafiyiinta caanka ah ee wax ku qora baraha bulshada ay sheegeen in si qasab ah looga saaray waxyaabaha ay faafiyeen oo ay dhibsadeen saraakiil dowladeed. Mid ka mid ah dhacdooyinka ayaa ahayd warbixin soo bandhigtay dhacdo jirdil ah oo Ciidamada Booliska Soomaaliya ay magaalada Muqdisho ugu geysteen fal ka dhan ah qof naafada ah.
Sidoo kale, Wasaaradda Warfaafinta Soomaaliya ayaa ku faantay inay iskaashi la leedahay Facebook-ga si ay faafreeb ugu sameyso wararka naqdiga ee lagu faafiyo baraha bulshada ee ku saabsan fashilka ciidamada dowladda ee dagaalka kula jira Al-Shabaab, halka Al-Shabaab laftirkeeda ay u hanjabtay saxafiyiinta la shaqeeya dowladda. Sannadka 2023, SJS waxay diiwaangelisay kiisas kale oo ku lug leh hanjabaado dhanka interner-ka iyo kuwo jireed oo ka dhan ah saxafiyiinta.
Hay’adaha warbaahinta Soomaalida, oo ay ku jirto Ururka Suxufiyiinta Soomaaliyeed (SJS), ayaa la kulmay weerar xooggan oo dhanka internetka ah, kaasoo muujinaya kor u kac ku yimid isku dayga lagu burburinayo shaqada muhiimka ah ee ay hayaan hay’adaha warbaahinta. Iyadoo la adeegsanaayo tabaha adeegga diidmada qaybsan (DDoS), weerarka internet-ka ayaa lagu qaaday mareegta SJS ee www.sjsyndicate.org, ka dib markii lagu harqiyay qulqulka weerar danabeysan oo ka dhigtay mareegta SJS mid aan la heli karin. Isla markaa, ugu yaraan saddex hay’adood oo kale oo warbaahineed oo kala ah; Kaab TV, Horn Observer iyo Horn Examiner, ayaa sidoo kale isoo wariyay weerarro isku mid ah, iyagoo hoosta ka xarriiqay dabeecadda baahsan ee khatarta ah ee ay wajahayaan aaladaha saxafiyiinta ee dhanka internet-ka.
Walaaca gaarka ah ayaa ah isticmaalka sii kordhaya ee hannaanka Facebook Community Standards oo sabab u noqotay in sii xad dhaaf ah oo khaldan loo adeegsado habka warbixin ka gudbinta baraha bulshada ee saxafiyiinta iyadoo ujeedku yahay in lagu faafreebyo saxafiyiinta Soomaaliyeed ee dhaleeceeya dowladda, taasoo keentay in waxyaabaha ay baahiyaan saxafiyiinta la xaddido, ama laga tirtiro internet-ka iyo in xaddidaad lagu soo rogo cinwaannada qaar ee saxafiyiinta taasoo wiiqeysa xorriyadda hadalka. Saxafiyiinta iyo warbaahinta dhaliila dowladda Madaxweyne Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud iyo Hay’adda Nabadsugidda iyo Sirdoonka (NISA) ayaa kala kulmay barta Facebook-ga xayiraad baahsan, boggaga oo la xayiro, la joojiyo, ama laga saaro warbixinnada ay ku jiraan dhaliisha iyadoo loo adeegsaday cudurdaarka ah ka hortagga “ururada iyo shakhsiyaadka khatarta ah” ama “ku xad-gudbidda xeerarka Facebook ee Community Standards.”
Intii lagu jiray sanadka 2023, saxafiyiinta Soomaaliya iyo Somaliland waxa ay la kulmeen caqabado waaweyn oo ku saabsan tebinta eedeymaha musuqmaasuqa, xadgudubyada xuquuqul insaanka ee ay gaysanayaan ciidamada ammaanka ee dowladda, iyo amni darro iyo weeraro ay geystaan Al-Shabaab. Inkasta oo ay jiraan ballanqaadyo dastuuri ah oo lagu ilaalinayo xorriyadda saxaafadda, isla xisaabtan la’aanta dambiyada ka dhanka ah saxafiyiinta ayaa weli ah walaac xooggan, iyada oo aan wax horumar ah laga gaarin baaritaanka iyo la xisaabtanka dambiilayaasha.
Saxafiyiin ku mudaaaraday Muqdisho oo dalbatay in xorriyaddiisa la siiyo Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS, Cabdalle Mumin 24kii Febraayo 2023. | Sawirka: SJS.
Iyadoo la ambaqaadayo caqabadahan taagan, Xeer Ilaaliyaha Guud ee Soomaaliya waa inuu mudnaanta koowaad siiyaa badqabka iyo amniga suxufiyiinta, isla markaana uu wax ka qabto la xisaabtan la’aanta, lana baaro dambiyada ka dhanka ah saxafiyiinta, oo ay ku jiraan kiisaska ay ku lug leeyihiin mas’uuliyiin sare leh oo dowladda ah. Intaa waxaa dheer, isticmaalka joogtada ah ee xeerka ciqaabta ee Soomaaliya iyo Somaliland labaduba waxay khatar ku yihiin xorriyadda hadalka, taas oo muujinaysa baahida degdegga ah ee dib-u-habeynta sharciga.
Si looga jawaabo caqabadahaas, SJS iyo la-hawlgalayaasheeda caalamiga ah waxay qaadeen tallaabooyin wax ku ool ah 2023, iyagoo laba dacwoodood oo waaweyn u gudbiyay Kooxda Shaqada ee Qaramada Midoobay ee Xabsiyada Sharci-darrada ah (UNWGAD) iyo Golaha Xuquuqda Aadanaha. Cabashooyinkan waxay si gooni ah u caddeynayaan xariggii sharci darrada ahaa, beegsiga iyo ciqaabta ka baxsan bani’aadannimada ee ka dhanka ah Xoghayaha Warfaafinta iyo Xuquuqul Insaanka ee SJS Maxamed Bulbul iyo Tacdiggii iyo beegsigii lagula kacay Xoghayaha Guud ee SJS Cabdalle Axmed Mumin. SJS waxa ay wali ka go’an tahay in ay raadiso caddaaladda iyo la xisaabtanka xadgudubyadan xorriyada saxaafadda.
Anagoo ka faa’iidaysaneyna xiriirkeenna caalamiga ah, SJS waxay sii waday dadaalkeeda u doodista iyadoo la kaashanaysa noocyo kala duwan ee ururada bulshada rayidka ah si ay loo difaaco xoriyada warbaahinta, ilaalinta xuquuqda aadanaha, sugida badqabka iyo helitaanka xogta ee internetka, iyo tallaabooyinka badbaadada ee difaacayaasha xuquuqul insaanka, oo ay ku jiraan saxafiyiinta, oo aan kaliya ku koobneyn Afrika laakiin sidoo kale goobaha kale ee caalamka.
Bishii Luulyo 2023, SJS waxay gaartay guul muhiim ah markay ku biirtay Machadka Saxaafadda Caalamiga ah ee (IPI), oo ah shabakad caalami ah oo ka kooban tifaftirayaasha, madaxda warbaahinta, iyo saxafiyiinta caanka ah. Xubinnimadani waxay sii xoojinaysaa ka go’naanshaha SJS ee ku aaddan difaaca xorriyadda saxaafadda, badqabka suxufiyiinta, iyo ilaalinta xorriyadda hadalka, gudaha Soomaaliya iyo masraxa caalamiga ahba.
Sannadka oo dhan, SJS waxa ay door muhiim ah ka ciyaartay taageeridda saxafiyiinta ay heystaan caqabado sharci, iyada oo bixisa habab dhinacyo badan leh oo wax looga qabanayo caqabadaha dacwadaha sharciga ah iyo khataraha ku ah xoriyatul qawlka. Tan waxaa ka mid ahaa in la siiyo taageero difaac sharci, latalin, iyo talo 47 saxafi ah oo ay ku jiraan saxafiyiinta haweenka.SJS waxay sidoo kale barnaamijyo tababar ah u qabatay 84 saxafi, iyadoo diiradda la saarayo awood siinta suxufiyiinta haweenka oo qiyaastii 40% ka mid ah ka faa’ideystayaasha barnaamijyada ay haweenka ahaayeen, iyo wax ka qabashada xuquuqda aadanaha iyo arrimaha xuquuqda haweenka ee Soomaaliya.
SJS waxay u mahadcelinaysaa taageerayaasheeda iyo la hawlgalayaasheeda caalamiga ah sida National Endowment for Democracy (NED), Sanduuqa Kanada ee CFLI, iyo Medico International. SJS waxa ay qorshaynaysaa in ay sii wado qorshayaasha tababar ee la midka ah sanadka 2024 si kor loogu qaado awoodda saxafiyiinta maxaliga ah ee kasoo warbixinaya arrimaha muhiimka u ah bulshada.
Somali women journalists participate a training session held by SJS in November 2023. The activity is part of SJS initiative funded by Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). | PHOTO/ SJS.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 8 March 2024 – On International Women’s Day, the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) calls for the inclusion of women in the media and the provision of resources and opportunities to support them.
While women journalists account for less than 30% of the total media workforce in Somalia, they continue to face significant disparities, particularly in securing top positions. Both state and private media outlets predominantly assign women journalists to lighter tasks with lower pay compared to their male counterparts, who often occupy roles as reporters, producers, editors and even senior directors. This disparity not only affects the professional development of women journalists currently in the field but also discourages aspiring Somali women from entering the profession.
“Somali women should have equal opportunities for employment and advancement in the media industry, including roles such as directors, producers, writers, journalists, editors, and executives,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin “We must also address gender bias, discrimination, and barriers to entry of the profession.”
Women’s inclusion in the media is essential for promoting gender equality, empowering women and girls, challenging stereotypes, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
We emphasize that inclusion for women in the media requires collaboration among media organizations and their managers, editors, policymakers, advocacy groups, as well as the general public who consume the media content. SJS will advocate for all these stakeholders to address these barriers and promote diversity and inclusive media landscape for all.
In this regard, SJS has completed a tailored training and mentorship program for 20 journalists starting from November 2023. We are confident that these women journalists, many of whom hail from marginalized backgrounds, possess the potential to make valuable contributions to the local media landscape and influence societal perspectives. Over the past five years, SJS has committed 40% of our initiatives to support women journalists, and we are actively striving to achieve a 50% allocation, despite encountering occasional challenges.
“When women are included and represented in various roles across different forms of media, it reflects the diversity of experiences and contributions of women in society. This representation provides role models for women and girls and helps challenge stereotypes and traditional gender norms and that is why SJS is focal on empowering women journalists,” added SJS Secretary General Abdalle Mumin.
SJS notes that Women’s inclusion in the media should be seen as a matter of social justice and equity. It involves addressing systemic barriers and biases that have historically excluded women from equal opportunities and representation in media content, employment, and decision-making roles. Legal and policy frameworks are also required to achieve gender equality and inclusion in the media.
“The fact that there are no legal and policy frameworks in place to promote gender equality and non-discrimination in the media sector is another part of the challenge and therefore the Somali federal parliament and the regional assemblies can do more to create such laws to ensure women’s inclusion in media,” Mr. Mumin said.
On the occasion of the International Women’s Day, please read an article by SJS Gender Secretary, Anfa Aden Abdi published by various online media here.
Moreover, on World Radio Day, SJS celebrated the vital role of female radio journalists in Somalia. Read our statement here:
(From left) MM Somali TV founder Mohamed Abdi Ilig, Chanel 4 News freelancer Jamal Osman and Radio Cadaado founder Sharma'arke Mohamed. | PHOTO/ Combined/ SJS.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 20 February 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is relieved that MM Somali TV founder and journalist Mohamed Abdi Ilig was freed from jail on Sunday after a court in Hargeisa ruled his innocence while we are concerned about the actions of Puntland authorities to detain and block Chanel 4 News reporters in Garowe.
MM Somali TV founder Mohamed Abdi Ilig gained his freedom on Sunday after enduring 43 days of imprisonment, initially held in a detention facility operated by Somaliland national intelligence before being transferred to police custody. The Maroodi Jeex Regional Court ruled that Ilig was innocent instantly freeing him. He was unlawfully detained on 6 January, 2024, following his hosting of an online debate on the Somaliland-Ethiopia Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
In Puntland, SJS strongly condemns the obstruction and brief detention of freelance journalist Jamal Muhumed Osman and his female producer, who work for UK’s Channel 4 News, on Sunday, February 18, in Garowe, Puntland State. Despite being accredited and assured of their security, Jamal and his producer arrived in Garowe that Sunday to work on interviews for their documentary program on the Red Sea crisis. However, they were stopped at the Garowe Airport and subsequently held in custody in the city before being released later that evening. Their journalistic assignment was impeded when they were forcibly flown back to Ethiopia on Monday 19 February, preventing them from fulfilling their journalistic duties.
This marks the second instance of journalist Jamal facing restrictions in the country, with a previous incident occurring in December 2022 at the Mogadishu airport.
On Thursday, 15 February, police in the town of Cadaado in Galmudug briefly detained Sharma’arke Mohamed, founder and journalist of the local private Radio Cadaado. His detention followed a Facebook post where he advocated for justice for two businessmen who were recently shot dead in Dhusamareb town. Sharma’arke was released a few hours after his arrest, thanks to the intervention of local authorities.
While SJS welcomes the release of Mohamed Abdi Ilig, we urge Somaliland authorities to thoroughly investigate the officers responsible for the detention and physical assault of MM Somali TV journalists on 6 January. It is essential that those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice. Additionally, we advocate for the unrestricted coverage of all issues of public interest by journalists from independent media outlets, including viewpoints that may be critical of the authorities.
“We are deeply concerned by the actions of Puntland authorities in Garowe, where despite initially accrediting Chanel 4 journalist Jamal Osman and his producer, they were subsequently blocked and detained. Independent journalists like them play a crucial role in raising international awareness about pressing security issues such as the Red Sea crisis, which require collective solutions. We urge Puntland authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident and address it promptly,” said Secretary-General, Abdalle Mumin.
“We strongly condemn the detention of Sharma’arke Mohamed in Cadaado, and we call on Galmudug authorities to uphold the freedom of the press by allowing media outlets and journalists to report on community grievances regarding injustices and violations of the right to justice,” added Mr. Mumin.
COMBINED: Three women radio journalists; Hanaa Mohamed (left side), Hamda Hassan (middle) and Shukri Caabi Abdi (right side). | PHOTO/ SJS.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 13 February 2024 – On World Radio Day, the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) acknowledges the remarkable work done by our female network of journalists working in the radio sector in Somalia and keeping the public informed despite the many challenges and threats.
Indeed, the radio as a journalism marks a century of informing, entertaining and educating world society. As research shows, radio is the most popular means for obtaining news in Somalia, with more than four in five (83.9%) of the population reporting they get news via radio at least once per week. And more than eight in 10 adults (83.7%) say they have a working radio in their home.
That is why many of SJS network of journalists work in radio sector. On World Radio Day today, we highlight three women journalists in the radio sector.
Among these remarkable women journalists are 20-year-old Hamdi Hassan Ahmed, and 21-year-old Shukri Caabi Abdi, who work for Radio Risaala. Both were trained under the auspices of an SJS program, generously supported by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
Hamdi Hassan (left), and her colleague Shukri Caabi Abdi (right, who work for Radio Risaala. Both were trained under the auspices of an SJS program, generously supported by the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) pictured in the Risaala Radio studio on 13 February, 2024. | PHOTO/SJS
“I like my job because I enjoy giving information to the public and the most important entertaining the community,” says Hamdi Hassan Ahmed.
Apart from their field reporting duties, both of these female reporters also host a weekly radio talk show featuring a call-in segment alongside a slot dedicated to music entertainment.
“Whenever we begin the show, you can witness the telephone line is already full with callers and majority are young men and women who are enjoying the show but want also to express themselves,” says Shukri.
In the program, the callers speak about their community and but also a key issue of the day is usually discussed- most of the time social issues like the rise of divorce, domestic violence, sports and inflation.
However, 27-year-old Radio Himilo journalist, Hanaa Mohamed, a beneficiary of SJS-CFLI program, views radio as a vital conduit of information for the diverse communities across Somalia, serving as a cornerstone of traditional news consumption.
“In my view, my role as a radio journalist is of utmost importance in serving my people. Radio remains a crucial lifeline for accessing information, catering not only to urban dwellers but also to those in rural regions,” she emphasizes.
Since 2012, Hanaa has focused on reporting on social issues, particularly those concerning women, through her work in journalism. Additionally, she utilizes social media platforms to expand her reach, targeting educated youth primarily in urban settings.
Radio Himilo journalist, Hanaa Mohamed, a beneficiary of SJS-CFLI program, views radio as a vital conduit of information for the diverse communities across Somalia, serving as a cornerstone of traditional news consumption. Photo taken on 13 February, 2024. |PHOTO/SJS.
According to research conducted in 2013, Somalis exhibit the greatest interest in media coverage related to religion, followed by health, arts and culture, and education. As a result, Hanaa and her fellow journalists strategically allocate a significant portion of their program to these topics, effectively addressing various social affairs.
“Today holds significance for all of us, particularly for our female journalists in radio. Despite the increasing sway of social media in Somalia, radio remains vibrant, reflecting the oral nature of Somali society and maintaining its pivotal role,” remarks Anfa Aden Abdi, the Secretary of Gender at SJS. “Radio stations not only keep the public well-informed but also provide employment opportunities for many journalists, including numerous women who are balancing their roles as mothers. We express our gratitude to them for their dedication.”
“SJS sends its compliment and congratulations to all radio journalists, and particularly women journalists for their dedication in keeping our society informed, educated and entertained,” Anfa adds.
MM Somali TV founder and journalist, Mohamed Abdi Ilig. | PHOTO/ Courtesy.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 11 February 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) voices its concern over the prolonged arbitrary detention of MM Somali TV founder and journalist, Mohamed Abdi Ilig, in Hargeisa. Today marks his 37th day in custody.
On Saturday 10 February, the Hargeisa-based Maroodi Jeex Regional Court has once again prolonged the detention of Mohamed Abdi Ilig by an additional seven days. This marks the second extension within the past fortnight. Previously, the court had issued a similar order to extend the detention by seven days on January 30, which expired last week.
Ilig was detained on 6 January, 2024 after moderating a political debate on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the Somaliland-Ethiopia MOU, which was hosted by MM Somali TV on the same day.
Even though neither the police nor the attorney general’s office has pressed any charges, SJS has obtained a charge sheet dated 12 January, 2024, issued by the Somaliland National Intelligence Agency (NIA). This document cites Article 200 (Political or Military Espionage) and Article 220 (Offending the Honour or Prestige of the Head of the State) of the penal code as the charges against Ilig. MM Somali TV Colleagues speaking to SJS after Tuesday’s court appearance, have confirmed that these two charges are the only ones known at present. Police and the attorney general’s office did not respond to our queries seeking comment.
On 1 February, Somaliland police in Berbera arbitrarily detained journalist Abdirahman Mohamed Ige of the privately-owned Horyaal TV after he posted criticisms regarding the manager of the Berbera fuel storage facility, Ahmed Ibrahim, on his Facebook page. Specifically, two of his posts, as reviewed by SJS, accused the government-appointed manager of nepotism by allegedly favoring close clan associates in employment practices. The manager reportedly filed complaint at the police resulting the journalist’s detention.
After spending five days in police custody, Abdirahman was released on 6 February, following a decision by a judge in the Berbera court who declined police requests to further detain him. Notably, upon his release, the Facebook posts in question were removed from the journalist’s page. Nevertheless, Abdirahman said he was glad to gain his freedom and expressed his determination to persist in shedding light on matters of public concern despite the ordeal.
SJS reiterates its call to Somaliland authorities to release Mohamed Abdi Ilig, the founder of MM Somali TV, and to halt the unwarranted actions aimed at harassing and intimidating both Ilig and his colleagues at MM Somali TV. The continued prolongation of his arbitrary detention serves no purpose other than to undermine Ilig’s morale, despite authorities being fully aware that he has not committed any criminal offense.
“We urge President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland to exercise his authority and release Mohamed Abdi Ilig from detention. Furthermore, we implore him to instruct security officials to cease their intimidation tactics against journalists from MM Somali TV and other media practitioners within Somaliland,” said SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Ahmed Mumin.
“Journalism should not be met with threats of incarceration or harassment, especially when journalists are simply facilitating public interest discussions, in which even Somaliland officials have participated in such discussions,” Mumin adds.
MM Somali TV founder and journalist, Mohamed Abdi Ilig. | PHOTO/ Courtesy.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 31 January, 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is deeply troubled by the continued incarceration of Mohamed Abdi Ilig, the founder and journalist of MM Somali TV in Hargeisa, and calls for his immediate and unconditional release. Furthermore, SJS urges a reevaluation of Lower House of the Somali Parliament’s approach to independent media access within the House of People.
Since 6 January, 2024, Mohamed Abdi Ilig has been held in detention after moderating a X (formerly Twitter) discussion regarding the Somaliland-Ethiopia MOU, which was hosted by MM Somali TV on the same day. Initially detained alongside two colleagues, reporter Mohamed Abdi Abdullahi (known as Andar) and cameraman Ilyaas Abdinasir, the latter two were released on January 9 without charges.
On 14 January, Maroodi Jeex Attorney General Abdirahman Iid Mohamed has directed the national intelligence to transfer Ilig to the police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) citing the intelligence agency’s “lack of legal jurisdiction to investigate a crime and bring it before a court,” according to MM Somali TV colleagues and documents seen by SJS. Subsequent to this directive, Ilig, the founder, and journalist of MM Somali TV, was moved to the police cells in Hargeisa, where he is presently detained. Colleagues have noted a deterioration in his health since this transfer.
On Tuesday, 30 January, Ilig appeared before the Maroodi Jeex Regional Court in Hargeisa, where his detention was prolonged for an additional seven days and no lawyers representing Ilig were present at the time, as reported by his colleagues to SJS.
Even though neither the police nor the attorney general’s office has pressed any charges, SJS has obtained a charge sheet dated 12 January, 2024, issued by the Somaliland National Intelligence Agency (NIA). This document cites Article 200 (Political or Military Espionage) and Article 220 (Offending the Honour or Prestige of the Head of the State) of the penal code as the charges against Ilig. MM Somali TV Colleagues speaking to SJS after Tuesday’s court appearance, have confirmed that these two charges are the only ones known at present. Police and the attorney general’s office did not respond to our queries seeking comment.
In Mogadishu, SJS expresses concern over the threats and obstruction faced by journalists and media stations reporting on parliamentary activities within the Lower House (People’s House) of Somalia’s Federal Parliament.
On 22 January, NISA and police officers denied access Somali Cable TV journalists who were trying to cover the parliament’s Lower House proceedings of the day. The journalists told SJS that the reason was linked to a video clip aired on Saturday, showing a Member of Parliament spraying water on parliament officials during the opening of the Saturday 20 January session. These limitations have impacted over 10 media stations and their journalists. Some of them were readmitted only after issuing apologies to the NISA officers stationed in the parliament and pledging not to cover anything deemed critical to the government.
According to several journalists interviewed by SJS, NISA agents extended their prohibitions to include interviews with lawmakers who are known to be critical or in opposition to the government. These restrictions commenced on 2 January, coinciding with the day President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s addressed the joint parliament session.
Furthermore, on 2 January, the Lower House’s Office of Communications and Media Relations issued a notice to independent media via WhatsApp, instructing that all media station must present letters of accreditation from the Ministry of Information by 10 January as a prerequisite for covering parliamentary proceedings.
Journalists and their camera equipment are seen on the background during parliamentary session at the Lower House in Mogadishu on 2 January 2024. | Photo/ Official.
Upon contacting the Lower House’s Office of Communications and Media Relations, a senior director told SJS that their intention was not to limit independent media, asserting that they are actively addressing these measures. However, this senior director refrained from commenting on their awareness of the NISA blockade against independent media. SJS remains committed to advocating for media access to the parliament, irrespective of their critical stance, and will persist in these efforts.
“The ongoing detention of our colleague, founder and journalist of MM Somali TV, Mohamed Abdi Ilig, constitutes a clear infringement of his rights and a blatant violation of press freedom. We express our deep concern about the extension of his detention by another seven days despite him committing no wrongdoing,” said Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, the Secretary-General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). “We urge the Somaliland authorities to uphold their own constitution and refrain from targeting journalists like Ilig who engage in discussions on matters of public interest. It is crucial to recognize that journalism is not a crime.”
“We urge the Somali Federal Parliament’s Lower House to reassess its approach to independent media houses covering parliamentary activities. The denial of journalists’ access to the House not only hampers press freedom, but also adversely impacts citizens’ access to crucial information about parliamentary proceedings. A robust scrutiny of elected representatives and the working of the parliament is a fundamental aspect of any democracy, with journalists playing a pivotal role. Hence, they must be granted maximum access to fulfill their vital function,” added Mumin.
SJS Women journalists complete training and pose for a group photo in Mogadishu on Monday 22 January, 2024. | PHOTO/ SJS.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 23 January 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) condemns the interference, harassment and blocking SJS women journalists’ training in Mogadishu on Saturday by the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), as we demand those responsible to be held accountable for their actions.
On mid-day of Saturday, January 20, 2024, in the midst of a human rights-focused training session for SJS women journalists, three NISA officers, led by Mohamed Fooxle and Hassan Dahir from the surveillance unit, unexpectedly arrived at Hotel Sahafi in Mogadishu where the training was held. Engaging in disruptive behavior, they harassed hotel staff, trainers, and participants, insisting on obtaining the list of participants, training content, and other related documents. Despite efforts by SJS and hotel management to explain the nature of the training, while emphasizing the need to protect the privacy of participants. The NISA officers ordered an abrupt halt to the day’s session, concluding it an hour earlier than scheduled.
On the morning of Sunday, January 21, at approximately 8:00 am local time, the two officers, Mohamed Fooxle and Hassan Dahir, requested a meeting with SJS representatives through the hotel management. SJS declined the request as the said meeting was neither official nor was it taking place in a public place. Subsequently, SJS successfully relocated the training participants to an alternative venue, allowing the session to continue on both Sunday and Monday. We are pleased to report that we were able to conclude our training successfully and safely in the new location with a powerful message from our women participants reminding importance of women in our society and demanding respect and protection.
With the support from the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), this SJS women journalists training activity forms a part of an initiative intended to enhance capacity of women reporters from diverse communities with a focus on reporting human rights abuses including, but not limited, to the advocacy of the rights of vulnerable communities such as women, displacement populations and those living in conflict-prone areas.
SJS vehemently denounces the actions taken by NISA and urges a thorough investigation to hold those involved accountable. The interference and obstruction of journalists’ training by NISA officers represent a grave violation of press freedom, freedom of expression, and human rights. Such actions hinder the cultivation of a resilient and independent media, a cornerstone for the vitality of democratic societies. Attempts to impede the education of journalists undermine fundamental principles of transparency, accountability, and the unrestricted flow of information.
Separately, on 22 January, NISA and police officers denied access Somali Cable TV journalists who were trying to cover the parliament’s Lower House proceedings of the day. The journalists told SJS that the reason was linked to a video clip aired on Saturday, showing a Member of Parliament spraying water on parliament officials during the opening of the Saturday session.
“Rather than providing security to the citizens of Mogadishu, who already face pervasive insecurity, it is disheartening to witness NISA expend its efforts on surveilling on human rights journalists’ training. They should be ashamed of that. We unequivocally condemn their actions. These actions should be investigated and those responsible must be held accountable,” stated Abdalle Mumin, Secretary-General of SJS.
SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.jpegSJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.SJS conducts three-day human rights related journalism training for women journalists in Mogadishu.
“We thank our participants, facilitators and our staff members who despite these challenges continued to carry out their work with utmost dedication and courage. We also thank our partners at the Canadian High Commission and the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI),” Mumin added.
From top left to the right down - MM Somali TV founder Mohamed Abdi Ilig; MM Somali TV reporter Mohamed Abdi Abdullahi (Andar); MM Somali TV cameraman Ilyas Abdinasir and RTN TV reporter Abdihafid Nor Barre. | PHOTO/ combined/SJS.
MOGADISHU, Somalia 9 January, 2024 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) strongly condemns the recent surge in attacks targeting critical media institutions and detention of journalists in Hargeysa and Mogadishu.
On the night of Saturday, January 6, 2024, Somaliland police conducted a raid on the MM Somali TV studio, a privately-owned station, in Hargeisa during a discussion on the Somaliland-Ethiopia Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The police violently detained MM Somali TV founder Mohamed Abdi Ilig, reporter Mohamed Abdi Abdullahi (known as Andar), and cameraman Ilyaas Abdinasir. Although reporter Mohamed Abdi Abdullahi (Andar) and cameraman Ilyaas Abdinasir were released on the afternoon of January 9 without charges, the station’s founder Mohamed Abdi Ilig remains in detention without any charges brought against him.
Additionally, on January 7, armed police officers executing eviction orders from the Banadir Regional Court chairman, targeted RTN TV reporter Abdihafid Nor Barre and cameraman Abdukadir Abukar Ali in Mogadishu’s Waberi district. The television crew was covering the eviction incident, conducting interviews with family members residing in the affected property. The interviewed family members asserted that the eviction was unlawful and implicated senior court officials in the case. The journalists were forced to flee to safety after an armed police officer pointed a gun at them while the reporter was recording a piece-to-camera clip. The station’s editor told SJS that Abdihafid and Abdukadir left the site unharmed.
While expressing our concern about the rise of hate speech and the calls for violence in the wake of the Somaliland-Ethiopia MOU, SJS emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open and free space for diverse views. However, we note the increasing fear among journalists and media stations in Somaliland and Mogadishu when presenting diverse perspectives which also impacted the ordinary citizens.
“While we welcome the release of MM Somali TV reporter Mohamed Abdi Abdullahi (Andar) and cameraman Ilyaas Abdinasir after their detention on Saturday night, we call for the immediate and unconditional freedom of Mohamed Abdi Ilig, the founder of MM Somali TV, who remains in detention in Hargeisa,” said SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Ahmed Mumin.
“In the realm of media, the primary duty is to tell the story, and no journalist or media entity should face intimidation for expressing political perspectives that may differ from prevailing sentiments. We call for the preservation of freedom of speech and endorse the right to engage in unfettered and independent media reporting—a fundamental requirement for any thriving democratic society,” Mumin added.
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