Press Statement:
Mogadishu, Somalia, 28 September, 2025 – The Somali Media Association commemorated the International Day for Universal Access to Information, an event that brought together 35 participants representing key media stakeholders, including a member of Parliament, the Somali Police Force, the Ministry of Information, civil society, and media.
The commemoration featured a panel discussion focused on the lack of an Access to Information law and the restrictions faced by media outlets in obtaining information. The event was officially opened by SOMA’s Secretary-General, Mohamed Abduwahab, who underscored the importance of Universal Access to Information Day, observed globally by UNESCO every 28th September. Since 2016, SOMA has marked this occasion annually with themes reflecting the prevailing realities of the Somali media landscape.
During the panel discussion, stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for legal frameworks to safeguard access to information and protect journalists in Somalia.
Abdishakur Ali, Director of Strategic Management at the Ministry of Information, noted:
“Multiple consultation meetings were held for the Access to Information Law, and the Cabinet has already passed the law. It is now awaiting presentation before the Lower House for ratification.”
A member of Parliament added: “Once the law is brought before the Parliament for ratification, I promise that media outlets will be able to provide their input on the law.”
SOMA’s Secretary-General, Mohamed Abduwahab, urged lawmakers to act without delay:
“I call on the Parliament to expedite the ratification process as an effort to protect Somali journalists and enable them to do their work without fear.”
Representing civil society in parliament meetings, Abdiwali Mohamed stressed the role of civil societies in strengthening governance: “We represent Somali civil societies in Parliament to encourage lawmakers to establish laws, respect them, and ensure they are fully implemented.”
The spokesman of the Somali Police Force, Abdifatah Adan, reiterated the Police Force’s commitment to protecting journalists: “As I promised on 3rd May, journalists will not be detained without due process of law, and the number of detained journalists has significantly declined. The Somali Police Force is committed to making the protection of journalists its first priority.”
A representative of the Media Women Network, Nafisa Hirsi, highlighted the gendered challenges women journalists face: “The absence of an Access to Information law has limited the ability of journalists, especially women, to fully participate in public debate and hold leaders accountable. We urge Parliament to ratify the law without delay and to guarantee that women journalists are protected and supported in their work.”
Director of KNN, Burhan Dini, pointed out challenges faced by Journalists:
“Undercover agency members often disrupt the work of journalists on the street by questioning them, asking what they are recording and who they are.”
A reporter at Somcable TV, Abdihafid Nur
“I blame the government for withholding information from the public, such as news of the recent attack on the President. I urge the current administration to abandon such practices and embrace transparency.”
In conclusion, SOMA calls on the Parliament to ratify the Access to Information Law immediately. Somali security forces are urged to create a safer environment where journalists can work without fear, and the government is reminded of its duty to uphold and respect freedom of speech.
