HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) Minister of Information, Culture and Awareness of the Republic of Somaliland, Barkhad Jama Batun, on Thursday held his first formal meeting with leading national media associations, signaling a shift toward a more independent and nationally aligned media framework.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), the Forum for Independent Media Associations (FIMA), and the Women Journalists Association (WIJA). It was attended by the ministry’s Director General, Abdisalam Ilkacase, and the Deputy Minister Muse Guled.
Focus on Media Law, Recognition and National Role
Discussions centered on the role of the media in safeguarding Somaliland’s sovereignty, advancing its international recognition campaign, and implementing the pending Somaliland Media Law currently before the House of Representatives.
The Minister of Information, Culture and Awareness of the Republic of Somaliland, Barkhad Jama Batun emphasized the need for the law to be approached from a national perspective rather than a government-centric one, marking a departure from previous ministerial positions.
“The ministry is ready to support a media law that reflects national interests, not just government priorities,” he said.
Support for Independent Media Council
Minister Batun welcomed proposals to establish an independent regulatory body for the media sector, drawing parallels with existing oversight institutions in other sectors.
He cited Somaliland’s higher education and health sectors, which operate alongside independent commissions that develop and enforce professional standards in coordination with government ministries.
Ending Institutional Tensions
Minister Batun dismissed longstanding tensions between the Ministry of Information and media organizations, calling for a rules-based framework that protects both journalists and institutions.
Minister Batun urged media stakeholders to support legislation emerging from the House of Representatives, stressing that the ministry would not interfere in the legislative process but would instead “follow and support” parliamentary decisions.
Cabinet Review of Media Policy
The minister also announced plans to present the national media policy to upcoming Cabinet sessions for review and approval, a move seen as a key step toward formalizing reforms in the sector.
Call for Unity on Recognition
In closing, Minister of Information, Culture and Awareness of the Republic of Somaliland, Barkhad Jama Batun said President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) had delivered a “historic achievement” for Somaliland by securing its first international recognition, though he did not name the country.
Minister Batun called on Somaliland citizens to unite in defending sovereignty and recognition efforts, and to set aside internal divisions ahead of upcoming national celebrations.
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SOLJA Chair Highlights Media Challenges, Calls for Legal Reforms to Protect Journalists
The Chairman of the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), Shaafici Mohamed Ibrahim, outlined the current state of the media sector and its key challenges, stressing that legal reform is essential to addressing persistent issues, including the detention of journalists.
Chairman said a robust and properly implemented media law would provide a sustainable framework to resolve disputes and safeguard press freedom in Somaliland.
He also highlighted SOLJA’s ongoing role in improving media standards and strengthening journalists’ professional skills through training and capacity-building initiatives.
Media Leaders Emphasize Reform and Rights
Other participants at the meeting shared their perspectives on advancing the media sector, underscoring the need for institutional reforms and stronger protections for journalists.
FIMA Chairwoman Wardasagal Ahmed Roble and WIJA Chairwoman Yasmin reaffirmed their organizations’ commitment to promoting media development and defending journalists’ rights, particularly for women in the profession.
All the member thanked the ministry his feelings towards media development and media regulations.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration among media associations to enhance professionalism and ensure a more inclusive and resilient media landscape.
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Prepared by:
Horn Post staff
