SJS member journalist Hashim Omar Hassan and another journalist, Hassan Yusuf Qasaaro, were arrested after publishing news about the case of an eight-year-old girl whose strangled body was discovered on the night of Monday, 4 August, at the family’s home in Adaado, according to police sources.

The two journalists, citing police sources, reported that the child had been “subjected to prolonged sexual abuse and that her death appeared to be a murder”.

Both journalists were arrested at the Adaado Police Station.

On the same day, a woman claiming to be the mother of the victim appeared in a video posted online, providing a conflicting statement about the incident. However, police later arrested the woman along with other suspects.

A source in Adaado told SJS that a local government official had ordered the arrest of the journalists and had also pressured the woman to record the contradictory video.

The journalists, who have since been released, told SJS that the local authorities were attempting to cover up the incident in order to “protect the reputation of the local government.”

SJS expresses deep concern over the arrest of the journalists in what appears to be an attempt to suppress reporting on a matter of public interest. We are also alarmed by reports that a local poet with connection to authorities used social media to incite harm against journalist Hashim Omar Hassan, accusing him of “shaming the town.”

On Wednesday, 6 August, gunmen reportedly associated with one of the suspects attacked police officers who were escorting a suspect to Dhusamareb, the capital of Galmudug, for further investigation. According to local media reports, at least one police officer was killed and several others injured. The suspect himself is said to have sustained injuries during the violent clash.

This alleged rape and murder marks the second such case in Adaado in recent months. While violence against women and girls continues to happen under-reported across Somalia, SJS is dismayed that local authorities are targeting the very brave journalists covering such cases instead of focusing on investigating the crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.

“The arrest of journalists simply for reporting a brutal crime against a child is both outrageous and unacceptable,” said Abdalle Mumin, SJS Secretary General, “Instead of protecting press freedom and allowing journalists to report on issues of public concern—such as the rape and murder of a child—local authorities in Adaado chose to silence them. This is a clear attempt to cover up a heinous crime and intimidate the media.”

“We call for the Galmudug authorities to carry out an independent investigation into the incident, including the intimidation of the journalists and the misuse of power by local officials,” adds Mr. 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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MOGADISHU/WASHINGTON DC, 25 April, 2025 – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) and RFK Human Rights strongly denounce the trend of attacks on journalists amidst the worsening security environment in Somalia. Somali authorities must uphold their legal obligations to guarantee freedom of expression for journalists and all Somali citizens.

In recent months, freedom of the press in Somalia has  significantly deteriorated, while security challenges continue to rise. The Al-Shabaab militant group has recently escalated its campaign on Mogadishu and surrounding areas, launching raids and planting bombs in key civilian areas. In response, the authorities announced a ban on any reporting concerning the security situation in Mogadishu, which has left a large information gap for Somali citizens.

This illegal ban on reportage on the security situation has been used as a pretext to suppress press freedom in Somalia. Earlier this month, Somali Police arrested Feisal Omar (Reuters) for reporting on a protest by the Somali Bantu minority community, and the directors of a local outlet, Shabelle Media, Abukar Sheik Mohamud and Mahmud Abdinasir Soofeeysane, for hosting an interview on insecurity in Mogadishu.

This recent trend began in February 2025 after journalists reported on the United States embassy’s security alert regarding imminent attacks in Mogadishu. The local police commissioner in Mogadishu threatened to detain “anyone who reports on security issues in a hot and dark cell with no lights.” On March 18, after an Al-Shabaab bombing targeting the Somali President’s convoy outside the presidential palace, which sadly claimed the life of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe, Somali police arrested nineteen journalists from both local and international outlets who were on the scene to report the news. In addition, the police raided and shut down the offices of Risaala Media Corporation without a warrant after Risaala Media’s reporting on the bombing. Five other journalists were arrested and taken to the local police station for interrogation before being released with a warning not to report on security issues.

On March 25, journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow was forcibly disappeared by armed officers linked to the regional police commissioner after reporting on an Al-Shabaab attack in the town of Afgooye, outside of Mogadishu. Mr. Mayow was summoned by the police commissioner after he published a video showing the aftermath of the mortar attack. Although local journalists went to the Afgooye police station to inquire about his whereabouts, the station informed them that they did not have him in custody. SJS confirms that Mr. Mayow was held in an undisclosed location until March 28, when he was driven to Mogadishu and thrown out of the car. The Somali police, who were responsible for his abduction, never issued any statement regarding his kidnapping or release.

Even journalists who were reporting on issues unrelated to the security situation have been caught up in the net of repression. On March 15, after journalist Bahjo Abdullahi Salad reported on leftover food and waste being dumped in a neighborhood in Mogadishu, agents from the National Intelligence and Security Agency raided her home, arrested her, and interrogated her for four hours. Her report was seen as a criticism of the Prime Minister, who had attended an event nearby that contributed to the dumping, and she was only freed after other journalists protested her detention.

“We are deeply alarmed by the escalating attacks on journalists across Somalia and the worsening security situation facing the media. The recent attacks on journalists in Mogadishu by Somalia’s police and national intelligence (NISA) and the death of journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe in an Al-Shabaab bombing in Mogadishu, which also claimed the lives of innocent civilians, is a tragic reminder of the dangers journalists face while informing the public,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin. “Somali authorities must end this culture of silencing critical voices and ensure journalists can work without fear of violence, arrest, or intimidation.”

“The ban on reportage around security issues is not a permissible limitation to the right to freedom of speech under human rights law,” said Ikechukwu Uzoma, senior staff attorney at RFK Human Rights. “Somali authorities must begin to see a free press as a critical part of the advancement of peace and security in the country—journalism is not a crime,” he added.

SJS is deeply honored that our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, has been named among this year’s distinguished 2025 finalists. [Read finalists here]

Beyond his role at SJS, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin has relentlessly dedicated his life to defending press freedom, promoting transparency, and standing up for human rights in Somalia—often at grave personal risk. He has faced imprisonment, torture, threats, and endless persecution simply for speaking truth to power.

“Abdalle Mumin was imprisoned because of his unwavering commitment to defending human rights and press freedom in Somalia. His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” said Mohamed Ibrahim, President of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS). “Abdalle’s courage fuels a new generation of truth-tellers and justice seekers. His recognition not only honors his sacrifice but also reinforces SJS’s commitment to our critical mission—pursuing press freedom, defending journalists, and promoting human rights with even greater determination and resilience.”

His selection as one of this year’s finalists for the Allard Prize is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope for the thousands of Somali journalists and human rights defenders who continue to endure threats, harassment, and oppression,” – Mohamed Ibrahim, SJS President.

“Let us be absolutely clear: If Abdalle Mumin wins this award, it will be a resounding recognition of his bravery, unwavering dedication, and personal sacrifice in defense of human rights, government accountability, and media freedom. It will undoubtedly inspire thousands of journalists and human rights defenders across Somalia and beyond,” adds Mr. Ibrahim. “Moreover, it will send an unmistakable message to those who seek to silence truth and oppress freedom—that the world is watching, and it stands firmly with those who dare to speak out.”

The entire SJS network of journalists and community of defenders stand proudly beside our Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin, and reaffirms our unwavering commitment to advancing press freedom, protecting journalists, and promoting human rights.  We also extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Abdalle on this remarkable recognition.

The Allard Prize, named after Peter A. Allard, a Canadian lawyer and renowned human rights champion, recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and courage in combating corruption and defending human rights.

The Allard Prize Award Ceremony will be held on June 17, 2025, at Tribeca Rooftop in New York City, U.S, where the winner will receive a $100,000 CAD prize.

At around 2:30 PM local time, Mogadishu police attacked five local journalists who were reporting on a group of women protesting in Mogadishu streets against the reported gang rape of a young Somali woman in Nairobi, Kenya and the alleged forced marriage of an underage girl to an older man in Puntland.

These two incidents have sparked public outrage across Somalia in recent days, highlighting the brutal violence that women and girls continue to face.

A police officer from Hodan district, identified as Amin Abukar ‘Muniish,’ along with his officers, arrived as the women protestors—who were chanting “We want justice, and we do not consent to be raped.”—marched from KM4 towards Maka al-Mukarama on Friday. The police dispersed the protestors who were mainly young women and then turned their attention to the journalists, ordering them to stop recording interviews with the protest organizers.

As a result, four journalists—Abdirazak Haji Sidow Nor (cameraman for Himilo TV), Abdullahi Abdukadir Ahmed (reporter for Himilo TV), Abdirizak Abdullahi Adan (reporter for Radio Mustaqbal), and Abdirahman Barre Hussein (cameraman for Radio Mustaqbal)—were arrested and taken to the Hodan district police station. Later, the police also detained female journalist Anisa Abdiaziz Hussein, who was reporting for Himilo TV from the protest.

Four of the journalists interviewed by SJS stated that upon arrival at the police station, their camera equipment was confiscated, and their interviews were deleted. The male journalists were locked in a narrow cell with other detainees, while Anisa was held separately from her male colleagues. The police informed them that they would be released only on the condition that they refrain from covering protests in the future.

Eventually, all five journalists were released, and their equipment was returned.

SJS welcomes the release of the five journalists, however, SJS strongly condemns this blatant violation of press freedom of intimidating journalists, confiscating their equipment and deletion of the material from the protest, which amounts of full censorship of independent media reporting and suppression of peaceful protests. We call for the respect for media freedom and the right to protest. The officers responsible for these actions must be held accountable.

“When Somalia’s Mogadishu police attack journalists and deny women the right to protest against rampant sexual violence, it only proves that the Somali government stands with perpetrators rather than victims. This repression sends a clear message that justice for Somali women who are victims of sexual violence remains out of reach,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“We condemn the unlawful arrest of the five journalists yesterday in Mogadishu, and the violent suppression of women protesting against sexual violence. We urge the Mogadishu authorities to return to the law and order, respect what the Somali constitution says, and uphold press freedom and protect the rights of women instead of siding with violent abusers,” Mr. Mumin adds.

According to colleagues and family members, Mayow, a reporter for the Mogadishu-based Dalsan TV, was covering Monday’s Al-Shabaab attack on Afgooye when he was summoned by armed officers linked to Banadir Regional Police Commissioner Mahdi Omar Muumin (commonly known as Moalim Mahdi).

Shortly after, he disappeared, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

A local journalist in Afgooye told SJS that Mayow was called by Moalim Mahdi after Dalsan TV published a video showing the aftermath of the mortar attack, which struck residential areas in Afgooye—a key agricultural town in the Lower Shabelle region.

Moalim Mahdi, a former Al-Shabaab defector who was promoted to Mogadishu police chief, was reportedly in Afgooye at the time of Monday’s mortar attack.

When a group of local reporters visited Afgooye police station to inquire about Mayow, officers there denied having him in custody and claimed they had no knowledge of his arrest.

Dalsan TV later posted on Facebook: “The police forces in Afgooye district have arrested journalist Ibraahin Mayow, who works for Dalsan Media. The journalist, who was arrested in Afgooye district, has reportedly been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters in Mogadishu.”

A Dalsan TV journalist told SJS that they have not yet seen Mayow or confirmed his whereabouts.

This is not the first time Mayow has faced danger. On 14 March, 2025, he survived an Al-Shabaab attack in Awdheegle district, Lower Shabelle, while covering a military operation. The attack targeted a Somali National Army (SNA) Gorgor unit base in Awdheegle.  Though Mayow managed to escape, he lost his camera equipment in the chaos.

Journalists covering military operations and Al-Shabaab attacks in Somalia are frequently targeted. Just last week, 24 journalists were briefly arrested, and one radio station was shut down in Mogadishu after reporting on an Al-Shabaab bombing in the capital.

Sadly, the Somali media community lost journalist Mohamed Abukar Dabaashe in the bombing.

SJS calls for the immediate and safe release of journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow and urges the Mogadishu police under Moalim Mahdi to immediately disclose his location. Kidnapping a journalist is illegal and a serious violation of press freedom and human rights.

The Somali government and its affiliated militias must respect press freedom and the safety of journalists. They should refrain from targeting journalists, as it is their duty to report the truth, including the attacks and violations committed by both sides of the conflict.

“The abduction of journalist Ibrahim Mohamed Mayow is a grave violation of press freedom and an attack on the fundamental rights of journalists in Somalia.  We condemn these actions and we call for the immediate disclosure of his whereabouts and for his unconditional release,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“While Al-Shabaab targets civilians, including journalists, in its terror attacks, it is deeply saddening that the Somali government is also attacking journalists, raiding media stations, and kidnapping reporters, such as Ibrahim Mayow, from the field. This poses a grave threat to press freedom and the safety of those working to report the truth in Somalia,” Mumin adds.

Bahjo’s detention followed her reporting on a video exposing rubbish and leftover food dumped in Wardhiigley district. In her report, Bahjo highlighted the health risks posed to the local community, particularly young children, and called on government officials to “clear their rubbish,” according to a video reviewed by SJS. The Somali Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, had attended the same event, which was intended as a public relations showcase for Mogadishu’s security amid growing public concern over increasing insecurity in and around the capital.

Soon after the clip went viral, NISA officers raided Bahjo’s house and took her to the Wardhigley police station where she spent four hours with police interrogation. She was freed after fellow journalists protested for her freedom.

Bahjo’s arrest is the latest in a wider crackdown on press freedom in Somalia. On 6 March, Somalia’s Minister of Information, Daud Aweys, announced new restrictions on local media houses, journalists, and the general public, barring them from reporting on security failures in the capital.

His statement followed a Somali Cabinet meeting held the same day. Minister Aweys said: “Today, 6th of March, 2025, the Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia has issued critical decisions, and we urge all Somali citizens to pay close attention. These decisions will result in various legal actions and punishment. As outlined in previous laws and regulations passed by the Council of Ministers, citizens are once again reminded that it is strictly prohibited to misuse or fabricate information—whether directly or indirectly—through any form of media, including social media. Anyone found guilty of such actions will face legal consequences, including prosecution in court and severe punishment in accordance with the law. It is strictly forbidden to broadcast or publish statements or news—whether on social media or radio—that could incite unrest, threaten national security, or spread false information.”

This statement came after the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu issued a security alert on 4 March 4, stating: “The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu is tracking credible information related to potential imminent attacks against multiple locations in Somalia, including Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. All movements of U.S. Embassy Mogadishu personnel have been canceled until further notice.”

Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Kenya had issued a statement on 27 February, announcing: “The U.S. Government has made the decision to not use Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu for official U.S. Embassy Mogadishu travelers until further notice. We will send updates as appropriate.”

These U.S. statements were widely covered by local journalists in Somalia. Following this, several airlines have announced the suspension of their direct flights to Mogadishu.

On 6 March, the Banadir Regional Police Commissioner, Mahdi Omar Mumin (known as Moalim Mahdi), vowed to detain “anyone who reports on security issues in a hot and dark cell with no lights.”

The ban on media reporting about security and threats of arrest and persecution have left residents of Mogadishu—and Somalis in general—in the dark about insecurity issues, even as Al-Shabaab carries out violent attacks near the capital, particularly in Middle Shabelle and Lower Shabelle regions.

“The arrest of journalist Bahjo Abdullahi Salad and the escalating threats against independent media coverage in Somalia are blatant attacks on press freedom. Targeting journalists for reporting on public health hazards and security concerns is not only unlawful but also deeply concerning,” said Abdalle Mumin, the Secretary-General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS).

“The media plays a crucial role in informing the public about what is happening on the ground. Silencing journalists and imposing restrictions on reporting security failures will only worsen the situation, leaving citizens in the dark and enabling impunity,” Mumin added, “We urge the Mogadishu authorities to respect press freedom and the right of the Somali people to access truthful and timely information.”

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

This initiative, supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), seeks to enhance the skills and awareness of female reporters, particularly in documenting and reporting human rights issues.

Between January 29–30, SJS hosted 10 women journalists from Mogadishu, Hirshabelle, Southwest State, and the Gedo region for an intensive two-day workshop in Mogadishu.

The training focused on improving safety and security measures, producing high-quality journalism on gender-related issues, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.

Sawsar Sheikh Faadil, a journalist with RTN TV Mogadishu, highlighted the importance of the safety protocols covered during the training.

“For me, security was a major concern. As a female reporter who goes out every day in search of stories, I benefited greatly from learning the necessary safety and security protocols,” she said. “I am grateful to the trainers and hope for more training opportunities in the future.”

SJS put significant effort into selecting participants who would benefit the most from this program, particularly those from marginalized communities and conflict-affected regions.

Overcoming Challenges in Conflict Zones

Kawsar Abdirahman Barkhadle, a reporter from Radio Gedo, traveled to Mogadishu for the training despite the ongoing conflict between Jubaland state authorities and the federal government. Her hometown, Beled-Hawo, like many in Gedo, remains under threat from Al-Shabaab militants, posing severe risks to journalists.

Being a female journalist comes with additional risks in Somalia’s patriarchal society, where women are often discouraged from pursuing male-dominated careers.

“When I started as a radio presenter in 2021, my parents urged me to quit. Society still struggles to accept women in certain professions,” Kawsar explained. “This training equipped me with advocacy skills, and I urge SJS to expand these sessions to reach more women in remote areas.”

Nurto Mohamed Hussein, a Radio Warsan reporter from Baidoa, said the training allowed her to connect with other female journalists and exchange experiences.

“During the workshop, I networked with women reporters facing similar challenges—low pay, safety concerns, and working in male-dominated media houses,” Nurto said.

During the training, Nurto took the opportunity to interview fellow participants, documenting their struggles in a report later published by Kaab TV.

In addition to hands-on training, SJS mentors journalists in developing impactful stories about their communities. When newsroom editors dismiss such stories, SJS advocates for their publication.

“This training program has been one of our biggest achievements since 2021, thanks to CFLI’s continued support,” said SJS Secretary-General Abdalle Mumin. “Changing the status quo for women journalists takes time and persistence. That’s why we must sustain and build on these efforts.”

Women make up 20% of Somalia’s professional journalists and are among the lowest paid, often earning less than their male counterparts for equal work. Many lack essential skills such as video and audio editing and access to equipment like computers, cameras, and voice recorders, making them more vulnerable to exploitation including sexual advances and harassment.

“When we listen to our female trainees, they share painful experiences of harassment and challenges in performing their duties,” SJS Secretary General Mumin said. “That’s why SJS has rented a studio and provided equipment for women journalists to produce their own stories. We are proud to support vulnerable female reporters and will continue these efforts.”

On the night of Saturday, January 25, armed NISA officers raided the home of Sharif Abdi in Mogadishu’s Waberi district.

However, family members told SJS that the officers began tracking him after failing to find him at his residence.

Later that evening, NISA officers detained the journalist at another location far from his home.

A family member and one of Sharif’s colleagues told SJS that the NISA officers who detained him were using a mobile tracking device to locate him.

SJS has been informed that the journalist was taken to the notorious NISA detention and torture facility known as Godka Jila’ow in Mogadishu, where he is currently being held.

Family members attempted to visit him but were denied access, leaving them unaware of his safety and well-being.

Sharif, who uses Facebook for his reporting, primarily covers security operations in the Hiiraan region, central Somalia, where he hails from.

In his reports reviewed by SJS, Sharif has been critical of NISA Director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbalolshe).

In his last report, published on Saturday, January 25, before his arrest, Sharif discussed the rift between the NISA chief and local clan elders in Hiiraan regarding a planned military operation against Al-Shabaab.

The region has recently witnessed increased inter-clan conflict amid the ongoing Al-Shabaab threat.

A government source told SJS that NISA officials were angered by the journalist’s report, prompting NISA Chief Mr. Sanbalolshe, who also doubles as a member of parliament, to order his arrest.

“We strongly condemn the unlawful and continued detention of journalist Sharif Abdi. His arrest is yet another attack on press freedom in Somalia and it poses a threat to wider journalist community who cover issues about security operations and the conflict,” said SJS Secretary General, Abdalle Mumin.

“We call on NISA officials to release Sharif Abdi unconditionally and to end their harassment of journalists who are critical of them and other government officials.”