HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) The Ministry of Information, Culture and Awareness of Somaliland has announced the launch of a nationwide registration process for independent media organizations, a move officials say is aimed at strengthening the media sector and improving institutional support for journalists and media houses across Somaliland.
The registration exercise is scheduled to officially begin on July 1, according to Abdiaziz Maydhax, Director of Communications at Somaliland’s Ministry of Information, who said the initiative is part of broader government efforts to organize and develop the country’s independent media landscape.
Speaking about the new program, Maydhax said the registration process will provide significant benefits for independent media organizations, including improved access to professional training programs, media development opportunities, and other institutional rights and privileges that media organizations are entitled to receive.
He emphasized that the initiative is designed to support the growth of Somaliland’s journalism sector while addressing a number of long-standing challenges currently affecting independent media institutions.
“This registration process will create major opportunities for independent media organizations. Registered media institutions will have access to training, professional development programs, and rights that are essential for strengthening the journalism sector” Maydhax said.
The Ministry also noted that the registration initiative is expected to help address several structural challenges currently facing Somaliland’s independent press, while improving coordination between the government and privately owned media institutions.
Officials further stated that one of the broader motivations behind the registration drive is connected to Somaliland’s ongoing state-building process and international recognition efforts, arguing that it has become increasingly necessary to establish a more organized and formal framework governing independent media operations.
According to the Ministry, improving regulation and structure within Somaliland’s media sector is now considered an important component of strengthening national institutions and supporting Somaliland’s wider quest for international legitimacy.
The announcement comes amid growing discussions around media regulation, press freedom, journalism standards, and institutional reforms within Somaliland’s rapidly expanding independent media sector.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
